How to Disable Laptop Tracking Devices

Laptops are targets for thieves.

A laptop tracking device is an application that allows you to track the location of your laptop in case it is misplaced or stolen. It works by sending the location of the laptop to a server or tracking service when it connects to the Internet. Although the tracking software can give you peace of mind, it can also violate your privacy since your whereabouts can be tracked using the software. Use the System Configuration utility in Windows to disable the software when you don't want it to track your location.

Instructions

1. Click "Start," then type "msconfig" in the search box.

2. Select "Msconfig" from the pop-up results list. The System Configuration window opens.

3. Click the "Startup" tab, then scroll through the list of programs until you find the laptop tracking software. If you don't remember the name of the software, make a list of all applications that you don't recognize. Enter the name of each application into a search engine to find out which one is the tracking program. LocateMyLaptop, GadgetTrak and Adeona are examples of laptop tracking software.

4. Deselect the check box next to the tracking application. Click the "Apply" button, then "OK."

5. Click "Restart" when prompted to restart your laptop. The laptop restarts with the tracking software disabled.

References

• Netsquirrel.com: How To Use MSCONFIG in Windows 7
• Windows: Using System Configuration