A self-encrypting drive (SED) is a storage device that provides built-in, hardware-based encryption for enhanced data protection. These devices do not require any manual intervention to encrypt data. The process is instant and continuous.
SEDs deliver higher performance than storage with file-based encryption. This edge comes from an optimized encryption engine at the hardware level. Software-based encryption uses more resources because it offloads the process to the CPU. In addition, SEDs offer system-wide protection. Software encryption has a narrower scope, encoding select files and folders.
As a result, SEDs are an excellent option for users who need performance and security.
The experts at SecureData explain how self-encrypting drives work and the benefits they provide.
How Do Self-Encrypting Drives Work?
A self-encrypting drive secures data by automatically encrypting all information written to it using a built-in encryption key. This key is securely stored within the drive, ensuring data remains scrambled and inaccessible without proper authentication. The data remains protected even if the drive is removed from a system.
When a user accesses data, the SED decrypts it instantly and seamlessly, making the encryption process completely transparent to both the user and the operating system. Since encryption happens at the hardware level, performance remains unaffected, offering a secure and efficient solution for safeguarding sensitive information.
Key Features of SEDs
These are some of the features of self-encrypting drives:
- Automatic encryption. Unlike software-based encryption, SEDs encrypt and decrypt data instantly at the hardware level, ensuring seamless security without user intervention.
- Seamless performance. Encryption occurs within the drive, so it does not slow down the CPU or affect system efficiency.
- Strong security algorithms. Most SEDs use AES-256 encryption, a 256-bit key to encrypt and decrypt data, meeting stringent industry security standards.
- Secure erase. By deleting the encryption key, SEDs can permanently disable all stored data in seconds.
- Protection against theft. Even if an SED is removed from a system, the data remains encrypted and unreadable without proper authentication.
- Transparent encryption. Ensures that data is automatically encrypted and decrypted as it is written and read without causing any noticeable performance slowdown for the user.
- On-drive encryption key. The encryption key is securely stored within the drive itself rather than on the operating system, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to encryption credentials.
- Authentication mechanism. Users must enter a password or security key to unlock the drive and access stored data, preventing unauthorized access.
- Compliance with security standards. This ensures that most SEDs adhere to industry frameworks such as TCG Opal, allowing them to be compatible with enterprise security management tools.
- Minimal performance impact. This allows SEDs to perform encryption at the hardware level without straining the system’s CPU, making them more efficient than software-based encryption solutions.
Benefit of Self-Encrypting Drives
Here’s a few reasons why self-encrypting drives are a smart choice:
- Data protection. Ensures that all stored data is encrypted automatically.
- Regulatory compliance. Helps businesses meet stringent data protection laws, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS.
- Ideal for businesses and enterprises. Reduce the risk of data breaches from lost or stolen hardware, which could compromise confidential customer and financial info.
- Perfect for small businesses and freelancers. Simple, effective way to protect client files, personal backups, and financial records without relying on third-party encryption software.
- Essential for IT admins and cybersecurity teams. SEDs simplify device management, remote security enforcement, and data disposal through secure deletion.
- Seamless performance. SEDs handle encryption at the hardware level. This approach eliminates the CPU overhead often associated with software-based encryption methods.
Protect Your Data with SecureDrive® SED
The SecureDrive® SED is a trusted solution for individuals and businesses who want to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access. It combines robust security with user-friendly features to provide unparalleled data protection.
They feature:
- AES-256 hardware encryption
- Password authentication
- Secure erasure tools
With FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation and TCG Opal compliance, SecureDrive® SED meets the highest data-handling standards, making them ideal for organizations that must adhere to GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS regulations. In addition, SecureDrive® SED has both SATA and M.2 NVMe SSD models for any budget or need. They also function in an external enclosure of your choice.
Contact us to speak with a specialist and learn more about protecting your stored data.
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