[ken]

Isn't the whole point of software to control hardware, at some level? How is hardware-controlled-by-software different from plain old software-controlled? If a switch can be closed by software, I'm having trouble putting my finger on exactly what security benefit that might offer.

[derefr]

> How is hardware-controlled-by-software different from plain old software-controlled?

Perhaps it’s that the hardware interlock on the microphone can be enabled by software, but can only be disabled by a physical action (i.e. opening the lid.)

[jaywalk]

The security benefit here is that software has no access to this hardware switch.