Microsoft Fingerprint Reader
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Microsoft Fingerprint Reader was a device sold by Microsoft, primarily for homes and small businesses. The underlying software providing the biometrics was developed by Digital Persona. First released on September 4, 2004,[1] this device was supported by Windows XP and Windows Vista x86 operating systems.[2] It was discontinued shortly after Windows Vista was released.[3]
Fingerprint readers can be more secure, reliable and convenient than a traditional password,[4] although they have been subject to spoofing. A fingerprint recognition system is more tightly linked to a specific user than, e.g. an access card, which can be stolen.[5]
Functionality
The Fingerprint Reader's software allows the registration of up to ten fingerprints per device. Login names and passwords associated with the registered fingerprints were stored in a database on the user's computer.Template:Fact
On presentation of an authorized fingerprint, the software passes the associated login names and passwords to compatible applications and websites, allowing login without a keyboard. If the software finds that the particular fingerprint does not match one it its database, it declines the access.
Application
64-bit Windows
The Microsoft Fingerprint Reader may be modified to work with 64-bit Windows.[6]
Firefox browser
The reader works with Firefox using the FingerFox Add-on.