Software-based full disk encryption or other traditional data security methods protect the data on a hard disk running at/or above the operating system level - encrypting the entire volume as an application. Even though it is effective, it is a resource intensive process with a slow user experience just to carry out requisite encryption calculations. The self-encrypting drive (SED) from Beachhead Solutions is more efficient because encryption management tasks are performed on the drive without relying on device components. The addition of SED management to its web-based data security platform, SimplySecure, will provide secure SED administration through the cloud.
According to Beachhead, the vast majority of personal computers built in last two years have SED-capable drives. But the makers of these PCs in most cases deliver the devices with the encryption turned off. Organizations that are moving to the newer PCs with self-encrypting drive capabilities can use the SimplySecure management system to remotely safeguard sensitive data of self-encrypting drives on Windows 7, 8, and 10, as well as the OPAL 2.0, TPM 2.0, and Microsoft eDrive operating machines.
With SimplySecure, organizations can administer SED-secured devices using their web-managed console and it will detect computers that have SED capability and initiate the process automatically. And for the older computers without self-encrypting drive, it will manage a software-based encryption to ensure it is adequately protected.
Not having to rely on software that has to be purchased and installed on the device makes it that much easier to manage the drives of multiple PCs across different locations.
"SEDs offer a uniquely powerful technology for securing sensitive data right where it lives, on the drive itself. We've taken notice and so too has the industry, with disk manufacturers now making nearly all of their magnetic and solid-state drive products SED-capable. With both SEDs and SimplySecure working to continually protect data, businesses can rest more easily knowing that their sensitive information is that much more secure," said Jeff Rubin, Vice President, Strategy & Business Development at Beachhead Solutions.
The remote management capability of SimpleSecure gives administrators comprehensive access to mobile devices and personal computers so the data can be secured in the event they are lost or stolen, or access has to be revoked for security reasons. Administrators can also wipe and restore user access on remotely located devices automatically to ensure the data doesn't fall in the wrong hands.
Edited by
Stefania Viscusi
