How Does Degaussing Work?
Magnetics are the key to retaining, reading, and writing most forms of data. The process of degaussing is great for destroying data because it physically scrambles the magnetic fields of these bits.
A degausser generates a controlled magnetic field that can disrupt and eliminate other magnetic fields, particularly within the bits that have been written into data. It does this by changing the magnetic domain of the data storage, rendering it unreadable and - therefore - unrecoverable. Degaussers generate strong magnetic fields that are significantly more powerful than those used to record data.
That means that devices like a degaussing wand essentially randomizes the data pattern. This means that the files stored on the hard drive itself and the bits representing it would be completely scrambled so there is no file, or trace of it, for humans or machines to detect.
This is why degaussing machines are so effective on magnetic media like magnetic tape and hard disk drives.
It is critical that the degausser used has a magnetic field strength greater than the coercivity of the media being degaussed. Coercivity is the measurement of how resistant a magnetic material is to becoming demagnetized. It is important in degaussing for several reasons.
Ensuring Complete Data Erasure:
If the degausser's field is weaker than the drive it is erasing and destroying, it will not be able to fully randomize the magnetic domains, and some data could potentially remain recoverable.
Guaranteeing Data Sanitization:
Especially in situations where sensitive data is involved, executing complete and irreversible erasure is paramount. Using a properly rated degausser, that exceeds the coercivity of the media, provides a high level of assurance that the data is unrecoverable.
What Does a Degausser Work On?
Degaussers use a controlled magnetic field to remove information and make any remaining information unreadable. This means that, while it is a successful data destruction technique, it may not work with all storage devices.
Degaussers work on:
- Hard Disk Drives (HDD)
- Digital Magnetic Tapes (LTO, DLT)
- Floppy Disks
They do not work on solid-state drives (SSDs) or CDs.
What Should You Look for When Buying a Degausser?
Buying a data destruction device is not as simple as buying a bottle of water. With the drink, you just want to know that it is water and that it is affordable. For most people, the questioning ends there.
However, purchasing a degausser is a much larger investment. Therefore, you want to buy from a company that can do more for you than just take your money.
That means that you should work with a company that is trusted by other organizations. Being the first customer of a new business can be a risk you might not want to take, so look for a provider that is partnered with alternative businesses.
The company should also provide NSA and GSA listed products, and verify that they meet the standard level set by these agencies. If it is selling items that it did not directly produce, check that its merchandise comes from approved dealers.
While it is not as significantt as quality of service, price matching is something we also encourage you to look for. For a frame of reference, you can explore our price match guarantee.
Degausser Rental from Whitaker Brothers
At Whitaker Brothers, we have a convenient and reasonably priced rental service for degaussing machines. Whether you desire to exterminate sensitive data in a school or office setting, our degaussers provide a reliable solution for protecting confidential information. With our rental service, you can have access to premium degaussing equipment without the commitment of purchasing it. This flexible option allows you to meet your data security obligations without the hefty upfront investment.
Our NSA-approved degaussers are ideal for organizations with short-term degaussing requirements. Trust Whitaker Brothers for all your degaussing rental needs.
Get in touch with our expert team today to find out more about product rental options.