What is the latest version of ThinkPad laptops that doesn't have Intel Management Engine or similar

[ShakiraMohan]

I work in cybersecurity and would like to find an older laptop that doesn't have the Intel Management Engine built-in, while still able to run a Debian OS well.

I have an IBM ThinkPad t42 with 42T0273 system board laying around, which was introduced in late 2004. While it likely doesn't have IME on it, I found that t42s came equipped with something called Embedded Security System, which sounds eerily similar.

Can you advise on whether my t42 is safe to use, or is there another, perhaps later model of thinkpads that can be used safely? (I do not want to use system76 or purism systems).

[AlHill]

You need to ask Lenovo.

Doc (not an Intel employee or contractor)
[Windows 11 is the new Vista]

[n_scott_pearson]

The Intel Management Engine (ME) was first included in 965 Series chipsets, which were released in late 2006. There was a predecessor to the ME built into the Intel 82573E (Tekoa) Gigabit Ethernet Controller that was combined with 945 Series chipsets, which were released in late 2005.

...S