Memory and storage specialist Integral has launched Crypto SSD, its first range of SSDs to feature military-level, AES 256-bit hardware encryption. The new drives offer low-power operation, silent running, rapid boot time and, as there are no moving parts, higher reliability and enhanced resistance to shock and vibration.


With Crypto SSD all of the data on the drive, including the operating system, is encrypted at system shutdown. The security system is BIOS-independent and a user can only access the disk and initiate Windows boot-up by entering the correct high-strength 8-16 character alphanumeric password.

In the event of a brute force password attack all encrypted data is automatically erased after a pre-set number of failed password attempts. The data and encryption key are securely destroyed and the Crypto SSD is reset. In addition, once encryption has been set, it is not possible to clone the Crypto drive.

Offering a multi-lingual interface that significantly simplifies global deployments, the SSDLock program supplied with Crypto SSD provides an easy-to-use, intuitive interface for system configuration.

Using the SSDLock program the number of failed password attempts that are allowed can be set at between 6 and 20 and administrators have the option to create both a user password and a master override password. This allows the administrator to unlock the Crypto SSD in the event that the user forgets their password.

Unlike other drives where the disk identifier is factory set by the manufacturer, Crypto SSD, via the SSDLock program, also gives administrators the flexibility to allocate each disk a unique or company-wide identifier. This significantly simplifies the implementation and management of endpoint security solutions in which only certain computers and devices may be allowed on the network, or where administrators want to limit and control certain users’ access to company data and applications.

Developed to be both tamper-proof and rugged, Crypto SSDs feature a design in which all drive electronics are sealed in epoxy resin and then shielded by a metal outer case.

Crypto SSDs are compatible with Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Windows 7.