Gatekeeper Halberd Review: Effortless Proximity-Based PC Locking and Unlocking – Hands-On Test & Giveaway

This is a sponsored post made possible by Riftcat. All content and opinions are those of the author, who maintains full editorial independence.

Contents

• Unboxing
• Getting Started
• Configuration
• Usage
• Trident App – Unlock with Your Phone
• Conclusion

Locking your workstation—even briefly—is a smart security habit, yet many forget due to the hassle of re-entering passwords. As a tech reviewer with years of testing security gadgets, I've found the Gatekeeper Halberd transforms this routine into seamless protection.

This compact Bluetooth key automatically locks and unlocks your Windows PC based on proximity. Keychain-ready with its included hook and lanyard, it keeps your data safe without extra effort.

How it works:

• The Halberd acts as your portable authenticator.
• Within range, Gatekeeper software logs you in automatically.
• Out of range? It locks instantly.

Unboxing

The Halberd arrives in a sleek, compact box containing the device, quick-start guide, CR2032 battery, Bluetooth USB dongle, and lanyard.

Getting Started

Setup is straightforward on Windows (Mac/Linux support coming later this year):

1. Insert the battery into the Halberd.
2. Download Gatekeeper software from the official site.
3. Install the .exe file.



4. Insert the USB dongle for pairing.



5. Pair the Halberd by holding it near the dongle (press dongle or Halberd button if needed).



6. Enter your Windows password (encrypted locally; nothing stored on Halberd).



7. Set a PIN for secondary access or two-factor security.

Configuration

The intuitive Gatekeeper dashboard shines here. The "User Info" tab shows real-time signal strength, triggering locks as you walk away.

"Lockout Options" let you choose lock vs. logoff, auto vs. button mode, and sensitivity (Normal/High). Press the Halberd button for manual locks.

"Unlock Options" include auto-login, touch-to-unlock, or PIN-required for extra security.

Usage

In practice, it's flawless: Walk away, PC locks. Return, it unlocks. If the dongle is removed post-lock, your standard Windows password still works—no lockouts.

Pro tip: Gatekeeper supplements, doesn't replace, Windows login. "Logout" requires manual re-login; Halberd button locks only (no unlock).

Trident App – Use Your Phone Instead

Prefer no extra hardware? The $19.99 Trident app mimics Halberd functionality via your phone's Bluetooth. Pair once, and it auto-locks/unlocks on proximity or app button press.

Conclusion

From my hands-on experience, Gatekeeper Halberd delivers reliable, user-friendly security that eliminates forgetful locks. Ideal for remote workers or shared spaces. Enter our giveaway for your chance to win one!

Gatekeeper Halberd