Abstract: A ‘personalized’ computer with a unique encrypted digital signature which will not boot up or recognize any data storage or communication peripheral devices without a matching ‘personalized’ smart card containing a complementary encrypted digital signature. A modified BIOS (Basic Input Output System) replaces the standard BIOS of a motherboard and allows a security engine microprocessor to take over preboot control of the computer from the motherboard CPU (Central Processing Unit), configures and operates the encryption-based security system, and enables or disables selected data storage devices and other user selectable peripherals upon start up and shut down of the computer. This use of a modified BIOS also allows this invention to work with any operating system or computer microprocessor chipset.