A dongle attaches to a port on a computer to act as a security key for expensive software or to add wireless connectivity. Early versions plugged into parallel or serial ports to prove software licensing, preventing piracy by requiring the physical token to run the program. Current versions are usually USB devices that provide Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or software licensing verification.
The CAD software won't boot unless the licensing dongle is plugged into the server.
Never lose a software licensing dongle. Vendors often charge the full price of the software to replace a lost hardware key.
Also heard as
- hardware key
- security token
Do not mix it up with
- USB key: A USB key is primarily for data storage, whereas a dongle provides software authorization or network connectivity.
Related terms
USB key
A compact flash memory drive or hardware security token that plugs into a USB port.
Peripheral device
An external piece of hardware connected to a computer to provide input, output, or storage functions.
Port replicator
A hardware accessory that provides multiple peripheral connection ports from a single computer interface.