When you're shopping for physical license media hardware keys, the key decision is often between a working modern dongle and a low-cost legacy part. Here, the Alerton Ibex Software Key Dongle for Windows 10 and the Software Security AMY KEY Granite Systems DB25 sit at opposite ends of the price and condition spectrum.
Quick Verdict
If your licensed software needs a working parallel-port dongle on Windows 10, the Alerton Ibex Software Key Dongle is the one that can do the job now-at a significant price. If you're exploring legacy copy-protection hardware or need a spare DB25 key for parts, the Software Security AMY KEY offers a much lower-cost path into that world, with the caveat that it may not be ready for active use.
Price and Condition at a Glance
| Product | Price | Condition | Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alerton Ibex Software Key Dongle for Windows 10 Unit for Hardware Parallel Port | USD 350.00 | Used | Windows 10 hardware parallel port |
| Software Security Parallel Port Security Key Dongle AMY KEY Granite Systems DB25 | USD 24.00 | For parts or not working | Legacy DB25 security key |
Where Each Product Wins
The Alerton Ibex Software Key Dongle Wins If:
- You need a key specifically for Windows 10 from the Alerton Ibex line.
- You want a used unit in good working condition.
- You're comfortable with the higher price for a hardware parallel port key.
The Software Security AMY KEY Wins If:
- You want an inexpensive DB25 dongle for parts or a collection.
- You're interested in Software Security Inc.'s legacy copy-protection hardware.
- You can accept an untested, for-parts condition.
Product Notes
Alerton Ibex Software Key Dongle for Windows 10 Unit for Hardware Parallel Port
The Alerton Ibex key is a used dongle with model designation Ibex, brand Alerton, and manufacturer part number Software Key. It's designed for Windows 10 and connects via a hardware parallel port. The higher price makes it the more serious purchase, but the unit is in good working condition. That's the core advantage if you need an operational key for licensed software. The limitation is the cost, and since it's used, you're relying on the stated condition. For someone who needs this specific key type, the working state is worth the premium.
Software Security Parallel Port Security Key Dongle AMY KEY Granite Systems DB25
The AMY KEY from Software Security Inc. is a DB25 parallel port dongle with male and female connectors, dating from the era when parallel port copy protection was standard. It's listed as for parts or not working and is untested. At a low cost, it's an affordable way to acquire a piece of legacy security hardware, especially if you're interested in the history of software licensing or need a donor part. The limitation is clear: it may not work at all, so it isn't a practical choice for running software that expects a functioning key. If your goal is a cheap, exploratory buy rather than a ready-to-use key, this is the pick.
Final Choice by Use Case
- For a Windows 10 software key that needs to function: The Alerton Ibex Software Key Dongle at $350 is the only one of the two that's in working condition and explicitly aimed at that operating system.
- For a low-cost legacy dongle experiment or parts: The Software Security AMY KEY at $24 gives you a genuine DB25 security dongle, but treat it as a part or collectible.
