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Microsoft Fingerprint Reader was a device sold byMicrosoft, primarily for homes and small businesses. The underlying software providing thebiometrics was developed by Digital Persona. First released on September 4, 2004,[1] this device was supported byWindows XP andWindows Vistax86operating systems.[2] It was discontinued shortly after Windows Vista was released.[3]
Fingerprint readers can be more secure, reliable and convenient than a traditional password,[4] although they have been subject to spoofing. A fingerprint recognition system is more tightly linked to a specific user than, e.g. an access card, which can be stolen.[5]
The Fingerprint Reader's software allows the registration of up to ten fingerprints per device. Login names and passwords associated with the registered fingerprints were stored in a database on the user's computer.[citation needed]
On presentation of an authorized fingerprint, the software passes the associated login names and passwords to compatible applications and websites, allowing login without akeyboard. If the software finds that the particular fingerprint does not match one it its database, it declines the access.
The Microsoft Fingerprint Reader may be modified to work with 64-bit Windows.[6]
The reader works withFirefox using theFingerFox Add-on.