Kensington N17 2.0 Keyed Laptop Lock for Dell & Alienware - Slim

In this review of the Kensington N17 2.0 Keyed Laptop Lock for Dell & Alienware, the bottom line is simple: it is a focused security solution for owners of thin and 2-in-1 Dell or Alienware laptops who need a low-profile lock that does not block ports or lift the laptop. The reviewer found the slim lockhead and omnidirectional pivoting head make it easy to attach on wedge-shaped slots while keeping the laptop flat and fully usable, and the included Register & Retrieve program and five-year warranty add practical long-term value.

Key Features

• Slim lockhead: Designed for ultra-thin and 2-in-1 laptops so the lock does not block valuable ports while attached, letting you keep peripherals connected.
• Omnidirectional pivoting head: Special hinges and a rotating anchor provide freedom of movement so the key inserts easily and the cable lies without awkward angles.
• 1.8m carbon steel cable: A six-foot carbon steel cable provides cut-resistance and theft-resistance comparable to thicker cables while remaining flexible.
• 5mm keying system: Uses Kensingtons common 5mm keying format so one key system can work across multiple compatible locks.
• Register & Retrieve: Free online key registration allows secure and quick key replacement if a key is lost or stolen.
• Five-year warranty: Backed by Kensingtons long-term warranty and industry testing standards for peace of mind.

Who It's For

The N17 2.0 is best for Dell and Alienware laptop owners with wedge-shaped security slots, especially those using ultra-thin or convertible 2-in-1 machines who need the device to remain flat and ports accessible while secured. It is a practical choice for students, office users, and professionals who frequently leave a laptop in a shared workspace or need a simple tether at conferences and trade shows.

People who require an all-in-one heavy-duty anchor or an alarmed cable should look elsewhere, as this product is focused on a low-profile keyed lockhead and cable theft deterrence rather than electronic alerts or surface anchors designed for fixed installations.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Slim head avoids blocking ports and lets the laptop lie flat for stable use.
• Pivoting head and rotating anchor make key insertion and cable placement straightforward.
• Long 1.8m carbon steel cable balances flexibility with cut-resistance.
• Free Register & Retrieve key registration and a five-year warranty add long-term convenience.

Cons

• Designed specifically for wedge-shaped slots and Dell/Alienware compatibility, so it may not fit nonstandard locks or laptops without the same slot type.

Specifications

Brand	Kensington
Compatibility	Dell and Alienware with wedge-shaped slot
Cable length	Six-foot (1.8m) carbon steel cable
Lockhead	Slim, omnidirectional pivoting head with rotating anchor
Keying system	5mm keyed system (Kensington standard)
Warranty	Five-year warranty

Our Verdict

The Kensington N17 2.0 is a practical, well-engineered keyed lock for Dell and Alienware owners who need a slim, unobtrusive security cable that keeps ports accessible and devices stable. With a flexible 1.8m carbon steel cable, Register & Retrieve key replacement, and a five-year warranty, it is a good value for users seeking reliable physical theft deterrence without bulk or complication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this lock fit my laptop?
The lock is designed for wedge-shaped security slots used by Dell and Alienware; check that your laptop has the same slot shape before buying.

Does the cable damage ports or raise the laptop?
No, the slim lockhead and pivoting design keep the laptop flat and do not block ports, so it will not raise or wobble your device.

What happens if I lose the key?
Register & Retrieve provides free online key registration and secure key replacement to recover a lost key.