Kensington laptop locks offer a wide variety of options, ensuring seamless compatibility with virtually any device. Cable locks provide a simple and effective theft deterrent, but not all laptop locks are built the same. With multiple lock slot types integrated into modern laptops, compatibility is essential. As the inventor of the laptop lock slot, our patented technology sets a standard no competitor can match. Our locks are strength-tested to endure the toughest conditions, keeping your devices secure. With OEM partnerships and innovative designs like keyed, combination, and slot-less options, Kensington offers superior protection for every device.
They allow users to secure their devices to fixed objects, making quick theft attempts far more difficult. Even with strong software security, physical laptop theft continues to be a significant risk, especially for students, remote professionals, business travelers, and even in-office professionals. Wedge locks offer high holding strength in a minimal footprint, making them suitable for very slim Dell laptops.
Kensington’s History of Locking
Choosing the right laptop lock starts with identifying the correct slot type. For those who rather rely on a physical security device rather than a combination, we also have the keyed version of the 3-in-1 lock. Laptop locks serve as both a visual deterrent and a functional safeguard.
Kensington device security cables safeguard laptops, tablets, and desktops in classrooms, libraries, and computer labs, ensuring shared devices remain secure and accessible. Protect your investment in technology and keep students focused on success. This table provides a quick reference for comparing the primary laptop lock slot types. Kensington device security cables protect devices across industries, ensuring technology stays secure in education, healthcare, retail, offices, and more. Kensington serialized combination locks provide a secure and convenient solution for device protection while simplifying asset management.
As businesses and individuals continue investing in cybersecurity, physical protection of laptops in public or semi-public settings is often overlooked. Understanding these differences makes selecting the right locking solution for your device easier. Using the wrong type will prevent proper engagement and leave the device vulnerable to theft. These locks work very similarly to the T-bar mechanism, but with a different lock tip and different sized lock slot.
Invented in 1992, the Kensington Security Slot has been an industry standard. Since then, more than 30 million Kensington locks have been sold around the world. One of the most versatile solutions available is the Kensington Universal 3-in-1 Combination Laptop Lock.
- Wedge locks offer high holding strength in a minimal footprint, making them suitable for very slim Dell laptops.
- Our locks are strength-tested to endure the toughest conditions, keeping your devices secure.
- Kensington laptop locks offer a wide variety of options, ensuring seamless compatibility with virtually any device.
Identifying your laptop’s lock slot is the first step toward choosing the right lock. Kensington recognizes that different businesses and organizations operate in different ways. K-Slot, Nano, and Wedge locks each serve a specific function and are designed for different device sizes and use cases. Store all preset codes and lock serial numbers for easy retrieval whenever required. With the financial burden of a data breach now averaging millions of dollars, the stakes have never been higher. We read every piece of feedback, and take your input very seriously.
They work with a Unique Lock Engagement system, in which expanding hooks grab the inside edges of the lock slot, creating a strong connection between the lock and the device frame. Carbon steel cable resists minimum cutting forces of 1,000 Ibf. Sheathing cover offers security, and greater mobility while protecting surfaces from scratches. Locks designed and tested to withstand a minimum side pull force of 400lbf. Locks designed and tested to withstand a minimum straight pull force of 200lbf. Serialized locks are supplied with a serial number etched on to the lock head that can correlate back to a preset code that is supplied at the time of purchase.
Secure Your Device, Protect Your Data.
Kensington’s online portal makes lock management simpler and safer, offering individual accounts and instant access to support services. Report posts/comments that aren’t appropriate for the “serious” flair.
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Each lock features a unique, pre-set combination and a serialized code, enabling easy tracking and recovery without the need for a physical key. Ideal for businesses looking to streamline security in large deployments. Professionals with slimmer laptops with Nano slots will benefit from this type of lock for securing their devices. This guide breaks down the key types of laptop locks—K-Slot, Nano, and Wedge—to help you choose the right solution for your device and work environment. Our device security cables protect point-of-sale systems, tablets, and in-store displays, deterring theft in fast-paced retail environments. Secure your technology and focus on what matters—serving your customers.
Types of Laptop Locks: K‑Slot, Nano & Wedge Explained
- To confirm compatibility, start by reviewing your laptop’s product manual or checking the manufacturer’s website.
- Designed to fit standard, Nano, and Wedge slots, it provides flexibility for shared office spaces, IT departments, and users managing multiple devices.
- Although they appear smaller, high-quality Nano locks can provide strong resistance to tampering when used with reinforced cables and locking components.
- Kensington’s online portal makes lock management simpler and safer, offering individual accounts and instant access to support services.
- The Nano Security Slot was developed to support the growing trend of ultra-thin laptops.
Designed to fit standard, Nano, and Wedge slots, it provides flexibility for shared office spaces, IT departments, and users managing multiple devices. K-Slots are found on devices such as Lenovo ThinkPads, and other external displays. While still effective and widely supported, the K-Slot is gradually being phased out in favor of slimmer solutions for thinner laptops. Each has distinct physical dimensions and locking mechanisms that affect which locks are compatible. Using the wrong lock for your slot type means the device will not be secured. Use our product finder to choose the right type of laptop lock for your device, and start protecting your workspace today.
To confirm compatibility, start by reviewing your laptop’s product manual or checking the manufacturer’s website. Many vendors offer model-specific compatibility tools to help users determine which type of lock is supported. While some models have standard lock tips, other K-Slot locks use a T-bar mechanism. When inserted and turned, the bar locks behind the internal frame of the device. The cable is then looped around a stationary object, like a table leg, to prevent the laptop from being moved.
Introducing Kensington EQ
Yes, universal locks like the Kensington 3-in-1 Combination Lock are designed to fit K-Slot, Nano, and Wedge-shaped slots using interchangeable heads. For a greater and more tailored experience, you can browse our product finder page to help match devices with supported lock models. Unlike standard and Nano locks, Wedge chicken road locks are only found in Dell laptops and often require locks specifically labeled as “Wedge” or “N17” to ensure compatibility. Nano locks are designed to function within the reduced structural space of lightweight devices.
Whether you’re using a traditional laptop, an ultra-slim model, or a Dell ultrabook, selecting a compatible lock is essential for effective physical security. Knowing your laptop’s slot type ensures that your security investment provides real protection. At Kensington, we’ve set the standard in device lock security for over 40 years. As the inventor of the lock slot, we pioneered a patented technology that remains the industry standard. Our durable materials and innovative designs, including keyed, combination, and slot-less options, provide unmatched protection for all devices.
Preset codes eliminate the need for individual users to set their combination and makes it easy to manage for IT managers. Explore some of our locking solution that have these security features. Check your device manual or the manufacturer’s website for specifications. If that’s unavailable, compare the slot to diagrams or try looking up your laptop model in our product finder page.
Choose your product of interest
Although they appear smaller, high-quality Nano locks can provide strong resistance to tampering when used with reinforced cables and locking components. It offers a compact version of the K-Slot, enabling manufacturers to maintain slim device profiles without eliminating physical security options. From safeguarding laptops to securing monitors, our solutions help financial institutions protect confidential data and maintain trust, even in the most demanding environments. Designed to protect laptops, monitors, and docking stations, our solutions provide peace of mind for employees and safeguard your organization’s valuable assets—whether in the office or on the go. We’ve taken the pain out of finding the right locking solution with the Kensington Security Selector. Find the recommended lock by choosing the make, model and product number, or simply jump straight to the exact device.
