TheftGuard, developed by Austin, Texas-based Softex, is designed to run independently of a computer's operating system. It is installed on Phoenix software called the Core Managed Environment, which resides on the computer's underlying hardware and on part of the machine's hard drive. Phoenix's Core Managed Environment technology is centered on the firm's FirstBIOS, which is basic input/output system  software.

Every time a computer outfitted with TheftGuard connects to the Internet, it pings the TheftGuard site. A computer-theft victim can register the machine at the site. If the stolen machine is brought online, the original owner can arrange to have the machine crippled or crippled with all data erased, and can determine the Internet Protocol address used--which can help in hunting down the thief.

Other companies have introduced similar Internet-based technology to deter computer theft. TheftGuard is designed to foil even thieves who swap out a laptop or desktop computer's hard drive to circumvent other antitheft protections, Eades said. Because the software lives in the foundation of the machine, TheftGuard still can disable the computer if it's connected to the Internet, Eades said.