The essential hardware every security professional needs. From authentication devices that protect your accounts to pentesting gear that finds vulnerabilities, these are the tools we actually use and recommend.
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Authentication
The gold standard for hardware authentication. Supports FIDO2, WebAuthn, PIV, TOTP, and works with hundreds of services including Google, Microsoft, GitHub, and password managers. The NFC version works with both computers and phones. If you only buy one security tool, this should be it.
Wireless Testing
The pentester's choice for WiFi security assessments. Dual-band AC1200 with monitor mode and packet injection support. Works out of the box with Kali Linux and supports the latest wireless attacks. The high-gain antennas provide excellent range for site surveys.
Privacy
Military-grade signal blocking for phones and devices. Blocks all cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS signals. Perfect for digital forensics evidence collection, secure meetings, or protecting your devices while traveling. Law enforcement and forensics teams use this brand.
Privacy
Protection against juice jacking attacks when charging from unknown USB ports. Blocks data pins while allowing power through. Essential for airports, hotels, and public charging stations. Small enough to keep on your keychain.
Hardware Platform
The versatile powerhouse for security projects. Run Kali Linux, set up a Pi-hole DNS sinkhole, build a portable penetration testing platform, or create network monitoring solutions. The 8GB version handles demanding security tools smoothly.
Network
Pocket-sized OpenWrt router for secure travel. Create your own VPN tunnel, set up a portable WiFi hotspot, or use it for network testing. Pre-installed with OpenWrt and easy to configure for security-focused networking.
Start with a YubiKey for hardware-backed 2FA, a USB data blocker for travel, and a Faraday bag for high-security situations. These three items will dramatically improve your personal security posture.
The Alfa WiFi adapter is essential for wireless assessments. Add a Raspberry Pi running Kali for a portable testing platform, and a USB Rubber Ducky for demonstrating HID attack risks.
The Proxmark3 is invaluable for access control assessments. Combined with the USB Rubber Ducky, you can test both badge cloning and USB security policies in your red team engagements.
The GL.iNet travel router lets you tunnel all traffic through your VPN. Pair it with USB data blockers and a Faraday bag for comprehensive travel security on public networks.
Pentesters, red teamers, and security consultants need reliable tools for assessments. These are what we actually use on engagements.
Journalists, activists, and anyone protecting sensitive information benefits from hardware security and signal-blocking tools.
Students and hobbyists learning security can practice real techniques safely with these tools in their own lab environments.
Hardware security tools are investments that pay dividends for years. Unlike software that becomes obsolete, a quality YubiKey or Alfa adapter will serve you through multiple devices and countless security scenarios.
Authentication hardware like YubiKeys provide phishing-resistant 2FA that software authenticators can't match. With passkeys becoming the standard, having a hardware security key is increasingly essential.
Wireless testing tools remain critical as WiFi continues to be a primary attack vector. The Alfa AWUS036ACH supports the latest protocols while maintaining compatibility with tools like Aircrack-ng and Bettercap.
Physical security devices like the Proxmark3 reveal how easily access control systems can be bypassed. Understanding these vulnerabilities is essential for anyone responsible for facility security.
Privacy tools like Faraday bags and USB data blockers address threats that affect everyone—from executives protecting trade secrets to travelers avoiding public charging station attacks.
Yes, all these tools are legal to own in most jurisdictions. However, using them against systems without authorization is illegal. Always obtain proper permission before testing.
Start with a YubiKey for personal security. It's useful immediately and teaches you about hardware authentication. A Raspberry Pi is the next best investment for learning and lab work.
Not necessarily. The Proxmark3 Easy works great compared to the more expensive RDV4. The standard YubiKey 5 NFC covers most use cases. Start with entry-level and upgrade when you hit limitations.
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