We're willing to forgive these minor omissions, though, as HP includes its superb ProtectTools Security Manager. From here, you can choose to encrypt your entire hard disk, or, if you're an administrator, set up the policies that will be in effect on each new notebook. These range from basic aspects of security such as the BIOS password, right up to involved choices such as whether a user is allowed to use the DVD drive or USB ports for mass storage devices. You can also disable Bluetooth.
Additionally, there's an HP Credential Manager, which atones for the lack of a fingerprint reader by usefully gathering your usernames and passwords into one place. Finally, the File Sanitizer gives you a secure way to dispose of data you want lost forever.
There are really no major features missing from the ProBook. At 2.62kg it isn't particularly portable, but on the plus side it offers a lot of power and storage. The screen, while not high-resolution, is a fine example and anyone who's struggled with a laptop keyboard will instantly be at home on the ProBook's solid keys the number pad is a plus too. Most impressively of all it costs under 700 and those happy with less power and storage can pick up ProBook's for under 400. These cheaper models still come with HP's impressive range of software tools. Inevitably, systems from the likes of Dell and Lenovo offer incredibly stiff competition, but the ProBook is undeniably fine value for money.
Verdict
Decent looks and lots of power are let down only by the low-res screen, but this is still well worth a look.
CPU: 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P7370 Memory: 3GB 667MHz RAM Storage: 320GB Fujitsu hard disk Network: Gigabit Ethernet; 802.11a/b/g/draft-n; Bluetooth Ports: 4 x USB; HDMI, D-SUB; SD/MS/MMC/xD card reader; 2 x 3.5mm audio Screen: 15.4in, 1,366 x 768 Dimensions: 372 x 250 x 31mm (WDH, mm) Weight: 2.62 Warranty: 1yr RTB
