HP Posts Bluetooth Security Update for Two iPAQs

HP has posted on its web site an update for the iPAQ h1940 and h2200 that brings to these Pocket PCs support for Bluetooth authentication via combination keys. Some Bluetooth devices require this in order to be paired with the handheld.

This update can be found on HP's web site. It is available free of charge.

What Are Combination Keys?

In order for two Bluetooth devices to work together, they must be paired. Bluetooth can use two different types of keys for authentication: unit keys and combination keys.

When a unit key is used, the same key applies for each connection to a device. A combination key, on the other hand, changes for each set of devices.

The Bluetooth SIG recommends that combination keys be used, as they prevent the wireless communication between two devices being intercepted by a third device that had been paired with one of the original two.

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