DigiSAFE DiskCrypt FAQ - Encrypted Hard Disk

DigiSAFE DiskCrypt is a 2.5” storage encryption hard disk, designed to be used in notebooks. It allows the user to install any 1.8” micro-SATA hard disk and contains a hardware-based cryptographic module that encrypts all data written into this disk to provide Full Disk Encryption (FDE). DiskCrypt encrypts every single sector transparently in hardware without any loss in disk performance.

What is the advantage of using DiskCrypt over encryption software to protect data?

Unlike existing software solutions, DiskCrypt encrypts every single sector of the hard disk. This means all temporary files, all partitions and even the boot sector is encrypted

One major disadvantage of existing software disk encryption products is that they are Operating System (mostly Windows) dependent. DiskCrypt, on the other hand, presents to the host just like a normal drive after authentication, and is independent of the OS installed.

DiskCrypt is a drop-in and easy-to-install replacement for standard 2.5” notebook hard disk drive and does not involve any tedious and error-prone software installation and configuration. Just plug DiskCrypt in the notebook, authenticate yourself and you are ready to go.

Once installed, DiskCrypt does not require any maintenance or patches thus reducing the total cost of ownership of the product. There are also no performance overheads due to transparent real-time hardware encryption/decryption of data, unlike software-based solutions.

How easy it is to start using a new DiskCrypt?

It is very simple and straightforward. If you are starting afresh, just install DiskCrypt into the notebook like a normal hard disk and boot from it. Once authentication is done, DiskCrypt will present itself as a normal hard drive with the capacity you have installed (e.g. 160GB). From then on, you may install an Operating System, such as Windows and Linux and start using it just like a normal hard drive.

What if I want to keep the data on my existing hard disk?

You can migrate the data on your existing hard disk to DiskCrypt by simply using standard cloning tools such as Acronis. Simply remove your old hard disk and connect it via a USB-to-SATA bridge, which can be purchased easily from any IT retailers. Thereafter, install DiskCrypt, power up your notebook and perform an authentication. The last step is to insert the cloning software CD to clone your existing data to DiskCrypt.

Does DiskCrypt support two-factor authentication?

Yes. If you purchase the optional DigiSAFE KeyCrypt cryptographic token, DiskCrypt’s Token mode can be enabled to support two-factor authentication.

What happens when the user forgets the password or loses the token?

In such a case, the administrator’s password (also known as Master password) can be used to reset the user password. Thus, the user will able to resume his/her work even after forgetting the password or losing the token.

However, if the Master password is lost as well, nothing can be done to unlock DiskCrypt for security reasons.

Is the boot sector of DiskCrypt also encrypted?

Yes, DiskCrypt encrypts every sector of the hard disk drive. This means every single byte of information being stored on the hard disk is encrypted.

Does encryption slow down the performance of DiskCrypt in comparison with normal, unencrypted hard disks?

No. The on-the-fly encryption and decryption engine in DiskCrypt is as fast as the data transfer speed of the SATA interface and thus does not incur any performance overheads. You may refer to the specifications of DiskCrypt on performance.

How strong is the encryption of DiskCrypt?

DiskCrypt uses the NIST approved AES encryption algorithm and the cryptographic module in use is FIPS 140-2 level 1 certified. The key-strength offered by DiskCrypt currently is 128 and 256 bits. For data that is highly confidential, key strengths of 256 bits are recommended.

What is the capacity of DiskCrypt and what if I need a higher capacity?

DiskCrypt is not limited by any capacity and a key advantage of DiskCrypt is that the hard disk in use (1.8” micro-SATA hard disk), can be changed, if an upgrade is necessary or the disk has malfunctioned. For example, you may purchase a 256GB 1.8” SSD and install it in DiskCrypt, all by yourself.

Can password or PIN be changed later without having to lose data?

Yes, password or token PIN can be easily changed during the time of authentication without having to lose any data stored in the hard disk.

Can I change my encryption key?

Yes. All your data is encrypted with a key known as Security Code. This key is unique for every DiskCrypt shipped and presented as the default key in use in the form of a passcard.

You may change this key using the procedures provided in the user’s guide. Please also note that changing this key will render all existing data, that are stored in the hard disk, useless.

It is also very important for the end user to safe-keep this key/code in case it needs to be used in future.

What is the warranty of DiskCrypt?

The warranty is 1 year, excluding the 1.8” disk in use.

What is the indicative price of DiskCrypt? Where and how can I buy?

Please refer to our website for sales contact information.

My question is not on this page. How do I find the answer?

Please kindly go through the user’s guide. Your question may have already been asked and answered. If you still don't find it, you can contact us through the contact information on our website or the contact information that can be found on the user’s guide

Where should I send comments on this FAQ?

You can contact us through the contact information on our website.

Please contact our sales representative.