A Comparison of Hardware and Software Keyloggers
If you are looking to implement a keylogger for the purpose of monitoring your child or an employee in the workplace you will find that there are basically two different categories of keyloggers. One type is known as a hardware keylogger and the other kind is a software keylogger. This type of program is designed for any type of legal use and logs all of your keystrokes and computing activities.
If you are unsure about the difference between a hardware keylogger and keylogger software here is a comparison of the two programs to help you decide which one is appropriate for your needs.
Hardware Keylogger
A hardware keylogger can be installed on your PC using a few different methods. Basically the program contains a memory chip that is installed in a tiny device. The device typically also contains its own Central Processing Unit to prevent detection by the PC user.
A hardware keylogger is capable of drawing on a lot of PC resources causing your PC performance to slow down. By utilizing its own Central Processing Unit it helps the device to go undetected since it is not compromising PC performance. The memory chip aids in recording the data that is being produced by the PC user.
The hardware keylogger can be installed in your PC’s BIOS which is the Basic Input Output System of your PC. This is the main part of your PC which provides processes in read-only memory which allow your computer to start the operating system and communicate with other devices in the system
Another type of hardware keylogger is installed on your PC from an external USB port. The device is inserted between the keyboard and the USB port. It also contains its own CPU to avoid drawing on the resources of your computer. Some of the USB keylogger devices are equipped with WiFi so you can access the data by logging into your email account.
Keylogger Software
Keylogger software is a program that you download and install on your PC. It is often downloaded from reputable websites for the purpose of monitoring the computing activity of your child, employee, or as a means of retrieving your data in the event your PC crashes.
When you download keylogger software it runs in stealth mode which means it is invisible to the PC user. Although the software is installed on the hard drive it is not visible if you look for it in any files or folders. Instead it takes a password in order to make it visible.
Keylogger software is capable of sending logs of recorded data to your email account or a File Transfer Protocol address on a local server where you can access it. With some programs that are used for parental control you can also block questionable websites and applications that you do not want your child to access.
Regardless of whether your use a hardware keylogger or a keylogger software it is important to be aware that it can be used for positive purposes or negative purposes. The proper way to use keyloggers is for the good and the positive.