Delkin Blog

Industrial applications frequently store data that are sensitive and require careful management. When it is time to erase that data and discard the storage device, standard erase functions may not be sufficient. Secure erase flash storage technology ensures that sensitive information is actually erased completely from your device’s flash memory, so you won’t have any concerns about what is happening to your private or classified data after you get rid of a drive. Here is what you need to know about secure erase and why it matters so much for industrial OEMs.

Secure Erase Basics

Secure erase technology in SSDs and other flash memory devices works by erasing each block in the storage device individually, so that no traces of data are left on the device. The nature of flash storage memory makes it notoriously difficult to wipe clean. During flash memory storage operations, data are not written on blocks in a specific order, which means that some data can end up isolated on cells that aren’t wiped by standard erase functions.

Secure erase approaches data removal with a systematic approach to make sure every part of the flash memory is erased. No bits of overlooked data are left behind. It effectively acts as an electronic file shredder, eliminating the need for more complex erasing technologies.

Secure Erase Benefits

For industrial users in particular, not having secure erase technology opens devices up to a wide range of risks. For example, healthcare organizations that do not securely erase patient data risk HIPAA violations. Military contractors may have very sensitive data on drives that could be exploited if accessed by people without the appropriate clearance.

Even businesses that don’t deal in particularly sensitive data have a need for secure erase technology. Information that you wish to keep inside your firm, such as design specifications or client information, could end up on a discarded SSD or flash memory card if you don’t utilize secure erase technology.

Delkin’s industrial grade flash memory products come with integrated secure erase and many other features that will keep your data protected. Contact us today for more information about our range of rugged embedded storage options.