What is Data Erasure?

Data Erasure is a different to degaussing or data wiping.

Degaussing uses a magnetic field to wipe any data on magnetic storage, e.g. hard disk drive, or tape; but the data item cannot then be re-used. Degaussing is ineffective on solid state storage, e.g. solid state drives or flash memory.

Galaxy offers an on-site degaussing service, which can be undertaken inside the office, before the data items are taken outside to our shredding vehicle or transported back to our secure facility.

There are a variety of different types of data erasure tools. Some are free, and can be downloaded online; whereas others must be purchased. Some erasure tools are more secure than others. Data erasure involves over-writing data, but this does not necessarily mean the data is irretrievable. The data item can, however, be re-used.

Galaxy uses a data erasure technique compliant with the NIST 800-88 Revision 1 Standard. This Standard is internationally accepted as a secure method of “data sanitisation” (unlike some other methods of data erasure). NIST 800-88 cycles verify the overwrite process; and unlike other erasure tools, can access hidden areas on the disk, spaces reserved for Logical Block Addressing, and firmware.

Any disk that fails the sanitisation process can be identified by its serial number; and sanitisation can either be attempted again, or the disk removed and destroyed. The Customer receives an Evidence Certificate confirming the sanitisation of each disk, or its destruction.

Data Erasure may be an attractive option to any Customer who wishes to re-use, or recover the value of their disks/hardware. Galaxy offers a % return of the current market value. Please get in touch to discuss the potential value of any hardware you are seeking to sell.