3-38 Configuring the System
Installation
The Intel Processor Serial Number Control Utility (version 1.03) comes
already installed on the system. The system ships with the processor serial
number turned off.
Processor Serial Number
The Intel processor serial number, a feature of the Pentium III processor,
is an identifier for the processor. The processor serial number is unique,
and when used in conjunction with other identification methods, can be
used to identify the system or user. This number can be used in a wide
variety of applications which benefit from stronger forms of system and
user identification.
The processor serial number is analogous to a conventional serial number,
with these important differences:
A software application can read the processor serial number.
You can enable or disable the reading of the serial number via utility
programs such as this one, or via the BIOS, depending on the system
configuration.
For additional information about the Pentium III processor and the
processor serial number, visit
www.intel.com/pentiumiii
.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of the processor serial number?
You can use the processor serial number in applications which benefit
from stronger forms of system and user identification.
Why would I want to turn off my processor serial number?
Intel believes the processor serial number can provide compelling benefits
to users. They are developing features in conjunction with the processor
serial number to allow responsible service providers to provide services
which maintain your privacy. However, if you are concerned that a given
application/service using your processor number might impact your
privacy, you can turn off the processor serial number using the utility.