I have had multiple laptop computers stolen from public places in mere seconds. Once, in a hotel conference center in New York, the security cameras showed that the thief had stolen my laptop during the 15 seconds it took me to walk out to the reception desk to request that the security guard lock the room! In D.C., my laptop was stolen literally behind my back as I spoke to a colleague. This security cable won't stop a determined thief, but it will deter the "pick it up and keep walking" thieves who prey on laptop users in public places. I use it religiously when using my computer in public places like coffee shops. Now, I can walk back to the counter to get a napkin without worrying that my laptop will disappear.
My only complaint about this product is that figuring out how to secure the lock is not intuitive. The printed directions are of little help. You just have to fiddle around with it for ten minutes until you figure out how it works. Two of my colleagues at work had the same problem. Once you figure it out, it makes sense and isn't awkward at all. I just wish the manufacturer could figure out how to print instructions that eliminated the initial confusion. When that happens, I'll give it 5 stars.