Abstract: The invention provides a method for providing enhancements to a BIOS system without using replacement hardware in a microprocessor-based device. The microprocessor-based device boots from a BIOS procedure and interrupts the BIOS procedure to read information from an information module inserted to a information module reader connected to the microprocessor-based device. The information read from the information module is used to selectively alter the BIOS procedure.

Abstract: Systems are provided for the enhancement of the system BIOS for microprocessor-based devices. Before the end of a BIOS start-up procedure, the BIOS operation is diverted to a BIOS security authentication system which may be a portion of an enhanced system BIOS. The BIOS security authentication system establishes communication with an information module, if the information module is present. The information module is typically a removable or installable card, which may be unique to one or more users. Based upon an information exchange between the security authentication module and the information module, the security authentication module controllably allows or prevents the system BIOS start-up procedure to resume and finish. In a preferred embodiment, the security authentication module is used as a pre-boot authentication system, to prevent a microprocessor-based device from booting up, unless a valid authorized information module is present.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for providing enhancements to a BIOS system without using replacement hardware in a microprocessor-based device. The microprocessor-based device boots from a BIOS procedure and interrupts the BIOS procedure to read information from an information module inserted to a information module reader connected to the microprocessor-based device. The information read from the information module is used to selectively alter the BIOS procedure.

Abstract: Systems are provided for the enhancement of the system BIOS for microprocessor-based devices. Before the end of a BIOS start-up procedure, the BIOS operation is diverted to a BIOS security authentication system which may be a portion of an enhanced system BIOS. The BIOS security authentication system establishes communication with an information module, if the information module is present. The information module is typically a removable or installable card, which may be unique to one or more users. Based upon an information exchange between the security authentication module and the information module, the security authentication module controllably allows or prevents the system BIOS start-up procedure to resume and finish. In a preferred embodiment, the security authentication module is used as a pre-boot authentication system, to prevent a microprocessor-based device from booting up, unless a valid authorized information module is present.