I've banked with HSBC since I was 16 and opened my first bank account, and I'm not sure how long they've had the facility to bank online, but I only discovered it a few years ago. I never really used to worry about how much money was coming in or out of my account, but due to the current state of the economy, everyone is being more careful with their money and trying to take control of their finances.

I find the HSBC online banking website very user-friendly, and it's possible to do everything in one place so you can have complete control over your finances. When you register for online banking you get a card with an individual number which allows you to log on. This number is quite long but I use it so often I remember it off the top of my head now. If you didn't have a great memory though you'd have to carry this card round so you had the number with you for when you wanted to access online banking.

You use this unique number to access your account, and then you have to answer a couple of security questions. This used to be your date of birth and then some digits from a pre-set security code of your choice, but HSBC have just released their Secure Key software, so it's slightly different. You now have to answer one question (which you've chosen so you won't forget the answer, eg mother's maiden name, name of first pet and so on), and then you have to type in a code from your Secure Key. The Secure Key software is a small keypad (about 2 cm x 1 cm in size and very thin) which is small enough to carry with you without getting in the way. You enter a security code (again, one that you've chosen) into the Secure key, and it gives you a code back to type into the website. This just enhances security, and makes you feel more confident when using the site.

I have accessed online banking from home and at work, and have never (touch wood) had problems with hacking or cloning of details. I feel very confident using the site because of the number of security questions they ask, especially with the new secure key.

The site itself is very user-friendly and it lists all the accounts you have with HSBC, and allows you to view the statements (including previous ones), transfer money to people, manage your standing orders, stop cheques, change your statement delivery method, and amend your overdraft.

You can also update your personal information online, which is useful if you're moving house because it's one less letter to write. There is also the facility to apply for other HSBC services such as credit cards, loans, and car/home insurance. I have never used this facility online, but think it's a good idea to have everything in one place as it just makes life easier.

The only thing I have found with HSBC online banking is that if you set up a new beneficiary they don't provide a service whereby they ask you to verify them. For example, I know that some of the banks send a text to let you know a new payee has been set up, this is just in case anyone has hacked into your account. But I guess the overall level of security is higher with HSBC due to the secure key facility.

Overall I think the HSBC website is easy to use, secure and a very good way of keeping on top of your finances. I haven't had any problems with it (apart from once when I forgot my password but I phoned the helpdesk and they resolved it very quickly), and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.