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Voice of the DBA


Welcome to the Voice of the DBA, thoughts from Steve Jones on databases, SQL Server, and life.

Aug 10, 2016

A few years ago, I had a keyboard die. At the time, I needed something quickly and ended up with a Logitech wireless model that included a mouse. I'm not sure of which model, but I've ended up getting two or three more Logitech devices over the years. I think I go through a keyboard every 18-24 months, though the mice seem to last longer. For me, having devices available without cords is more important for the mouse than the keyboard, but since Logitech will bundle them, I get both at the same time. I'm currently with a K350 keyboard and an M510 mouse, both of which seem to hold up well.

However, I'm at home, usually working alone, so I haven't been concerned much about security. In corporate environments, I remember playing jokes by moving someone's mouse to my desk, and giving them a disconnected replacement, trying to mimic their movement. Or doing the same with a keyboard. That's a great typing challenge if you ever try it.

I thought about those times when I read this piece on the security of wireless keyboards, or maybe the lack of security. Apparently a relatively simple device can intercept and replace, or just record, keystrokes made on a variety of keyboards. These devices use their own dongles, not a Bluetooth connection, and security is non-existent. Perhaps I'll take one to the Redgate office this fall and see who's actually vulnerable.

Read the rest of "Keyboard Hardlines"