USB security tokens protect computing resources via two-factor authentication. This type of security requires that two conditions are met when enacting communication. A physical USB dongle needs to be available and the user needs to know the PIN required to access it. Using this kind of authentication offers increased security over that provided by simple password authorization.
USB dongles are comprised of a microcontroller as well as protected memory that is used to store user data. The security key protects software assets by requiring the program to connect to the dongle to unlock its full functionality. Dongle manufacturers for the most part support basic information technology security standards, making the devices easy to implement and integrate with other systems.