[whirk]

I've investigated this issue on several fronts, from apple's pdf's to the nsa's section on securing mac os x 10.3 and up. it all boils down to obtaining the key and the card containing the key...

is there a solution that's workable for a single mac, as everything i seem to come across boils down to solutions that are intended for large networks and businesses with an array of networked computers and components.

and of course the mac requires a secure id card reader, which is easily found...

any suggestions on this sort of thing in an environment that is just your standalone mac at home?

[MacosNerd]

You're looking to use a secure key reader for a home computer?

My first question is why. Why is the security on your mac insufficient?

The reason why you're not finding too many solutions for this other then for large networks is there's little market for the higher security for home computers. For the Mac the password is generally sufficient and as long as you keep it random enough and don't give it out you should be ok.

[whirk]

yes i know that but you didn't answer my question...

is there a viable solution to integrate a secure id card system of security for a standalone mac pro???

[besson3c]

Are you looking to secure a particular application with a challenge/response type of authentication? Change the authentication mechanism in OS X?

I think if you are looking to use a SmartCard with a particular application, this will depend on the application. For OS X itself, you can manage challenge/response with a Kerberos server.

Is this remotely useful?

[MacosNerd]

Originally Posted by whirk 

yes i know that but you didn't answer my question...

is there a viable solution to integrate a secure id card system of security for a standalone mac pro???

I kind inferred that your not going to find any solutions. Generally there's not too much of a call for this type of security for the home user.

Perhaps as I first requested and Besson also asked. What you are looking to do. Without knowing the needs makes it a little more difficult to provide suggestions.

My company uses securid, so at the very least you should contact RSA to see if they have a solution that fits your needs.