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    Smart cards and Windows logon

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by aljebreensh, Aug 23, 2011.

  1. aljebreensh

    aljebreensh Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hello everyone,

    I have an X220 with a smart card reader (Gemplus). I am wondering if I can easily create configure a smart card to use for Windows logon and drive encryption.

    I googled it and found threads talking about corporate security (really complicated stuff) and so on.

    Is it possible to use a smart card on a personal level given that I do not have previous experience in this matter? The reason I am posting the question here is that Thinkpads are usually used in businesses and thus I may find some people who can help.

    I really appreciate your help.

    Best regards,
    Saad
     
    aljebreensh, Aug 23, 2011
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  2. n1234

    n1234 Notebook Guru

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    I have not tried this yet, I have the reader but not a smart card.

    You can type: secpol.msc into the start menu to open Local Security Policy.
    Then on the left side, go to: Local Policy.
    Then: Security Option.

    Now on the right, scroll down to: Interactive Logon: Require smart card
    and enable that.

    Also there an option under that: Interactive Logon: Smart card removal behavior. You can set what happen when the smart card is removed.
     
    n1234, Aug 23, 2011
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  3. n1234

    n1234 Notebook Guru

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    If anyone tries this and it works, let me know.
     
    n1234, Aug 23, 2011
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  4. aljebreensh

    aljebreensh Notebook Enthusiast

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    Unfortunately that didn't work. I bought a couple of new blank smart cards (ACOS5 and Gemclub Memo) for $20.

    Whenever I insert the smart card, Windows tries to find a driver but fails.

    What I understood from my readings online is that you first have to program the smart card to be able to use it which makes sense.

    So the next question: how to program a smart card and can it be done easily with no programming or IT experience?
     
    aljebreensh, Aug 24, 2011
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