Abstract: In general the present invention provides for a small hand held size device that is easily kept in a pocket or purse or on a key chain. The security token will contain a microprocessor having memory function and will connect to a PC or other computing device or workstation via a USB port. Upon insertion into the open USB port of the user's remote computer, the personal network security token scans the remote computer to detect the presence of at least one or more operating applications, such as the type of anti-virus software and patch level and/or the type of operating system (OS) the remote computer is running and the patch level. Upon contacting the target network, the network will send an inquiry to the user's remote computer to determine if the personal network security token is present as well as other parameters. If the condition status of the token is “OK” then the network sends an authentication page to the user for the user to enter his or her user ID and password.