A data processing system and method including a docking station and a
portable computer capable of being coupled to the docking station are
disclosed for securing the docking station, the portable computer, and for
securing the attachment of the docking station to the portable computer.
The portable computer is coupled to the docking station. A disconnection
password is established. When the portable computer is disconnected from
the docking station, a user is prompted for the disconnection password.
The portable computer is disabled in response to a failure to correctly
enter the disconnection password, wherein the portable computer is
inoperable without a correct entry of the disconnection password. When a
portable computer is connected to the docking station, a correct entry of
a connection password is required. In response to a failure to correctly
enter the connection password, access to the docking station is
prohibited. When the docking station is physically removed from its
stationary support, correct entry of a relocation password is required. In
response to a failure to correctly enter the password, access to the
docking station is prohibited.