SIE and SED Encryption in KIOXIA SSDs

Previously, the security options SED (Self-Encrypting Drive) and SIE (Sanitize Instant Erase) were available as optional features for KIOXIA SSDs, which customers could order as needed. Since the beginning of this year, KIOXIA has enabled these functions by default, providing all users with enhanced data security. In this article, you will learn what this means for you.

What is SIE and what is SED?

Sanitize Instant Erase (SIE) is a security technology for SSDs that allows for quick and secure data erasure. By deleting the encryption key, all data on the SSD becomes unreadable and effectively irretrievable.

This process is often referred to as "crypto-wiping." SIE is ideal for environments where it is critical to remove data quickly and securely, such as during hardware decommissioning or resale. This technology provides companies with the assurance that their sensitive information remains protected, even when the physical hardware leaves the company.

Self-Encrypting Drives (SEDs) offer continuous, hardware-based encryption for data stored on the drive. Encryption occurs automatically and transparently to the user, meaning that data is encrypted and decrypted during every write and read operation.

Encryption does not affect the drive's performance and ensures that data is always protected. This makes SEDs particularly valuable for use in environments with high security requirements, such as financial transactions or personal data.

At a Glance

• Automatic hardware encryption
• Protection through crypto-wiping: Removes the encryption key, making data unreadable. Quick data erasure through immediate and irreversible deletion of all data.
• Ideal for: Companies decommissioning or reselling hardware.

• Permanent encryption: Automatic, hardware-based encryption of all stored data using a self-assigned key.
• Transparent operation: No user intervention required, no performance loss.
• Use cases: High security requirements, such as in banking, healthcare.
• SED also includes the option for crypto-wiping (SIE).

All KIOXIA SSDs are now equipped with SIE (NVMe) or SED (SAS) by default. Thus, the entire KIOXIA portfolio, both in the NVMe and SAS segments, now includes these security features as standard.

Encryption Identifiers at a Glance

What Does the Shift to Default SIE and SED Encryption in KIOXIA SSDs Mean for You?

• Increased Data Security: Your data is continuously encrypted, even if the SSD is physically compromised.
• Easy Data Erasure: With SIE, data can be quickly and securely deleted, ideal for SSD replacement or resale.
• No Performance Loss: Hardware encryption does not affect SSD performance, so you continue to enjoy fast access times.
• User-Friendly: These security features work automatically in the background, without any additional action required from you. If you do not need the security features, there is nothing to do – the SSD behaves like an unencrypted SSD.

Conclusion: These features provide you with added value in terms of security and convenience, without compromising on speed or efficiency.