USBdongle

A USB dongle is a small hardware device that connects to a computer or other host via a USB port. It may serve as a hardware key for software licensing or copy protection, provide additional functionality to a device, or function as a wireless adapter for peripherals. The term can refer to various form factors, including USB-A, USB-C, and embedded devices.

Common uses include cryptographic keys used by software to verify licenses, authentication tokens for secure access, and wireless dongles that enable Bluetooth, Wi‑Fi, or RF radios on devices lacking built-in support. Some dongles bundle multiple features, and others are designed for enterprise environments to enforce licenses or grant access to peripherals or networks.

Designs rely on the USB interface and may include secure elements, tamper-resistant microcontrollers, or cryptographic processors. They often implement a challenge-response protocol or store license data and keys. Compatibility depends on drivers or middleware supplied by the vendor, and some devices support standard USB classes while others use proprietary protocols.

Security and reliability considerations include the risk of loss, damage, or theft, which can interrupt access to licensed software. Counterfeiting, tampering, and driver issues can also affect usability. Critics point out that dongles can be inconvenient for portable or shared environments, leading some vendors to explore cloud-based or software-only licensing as alternatives.