Why Data Centers No Longer Degauss Electronic Devices

The world seems to be hurtling towards quantum computing, as evidenced by significant technological breakthroughs, increasing investment flows, and promising developments in the field. So, it should come as no surprise that traditional data security measures are facing a paradigm shift. One practice that seems to be on the brink of obsolescence is degaussing, a method employed to erase data from magnetic storage media.

With the rise of quantum computers capable of breaking contemporary encryption methods, we need more robust data disposal techniques. So, let’s explore the fading relevance of degaussing and the rising importance of media disintegration in safeguarding sensitive information in data centers. 

*Keep in mind degaussing only works on HDD and magnetically encoded media. Degaussing will never work on SSDs as they contain no magnetically encoded data. 

The Threat of Quantum Computing and The Degaussing Dilemma

Quantum computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex computations at speeds that would be unimaginable with classical computers. However, while this represents a leap forward in computational capabilities, it also poses a significant threat to conventional encryption algorithms.

McKinsey estimates that the economic impact of quantum computers will reach approximately $1.3 trillion by 2035. The pursuit of quantum computing is anticipated to carry extensive consequences, and the progress of this technology seems to be accelerating at an exponential pace.

When fully realized, these computers could, in fact, break widely used encryption methods, rendering data vulnerable to unauthorized access. So, while effective against traditional threats, degaussing would fall short in the face of quantum advancements.

What is Degaussing?

Degaussing is a long-standing method of data erasure that involves exposing magnetic media (such as magnetic tape, floppy disks, and HDDs) to a strong magnetic field to neutralize data stored on it. This is achieved by randomly changing the alignment of magnetic domains on the medium, rendering previous data unrecoverable (and away from malicious actors who want to gain access to critical applications and/or classified information).

Degaussing has long been considered an effective method for ensuring that confidential data in storage devices is securely and completely erased, as simply overwriting magnetic media does not altogether remove the information.

While effective against traditional threats, though, degaussing falls short in the face of both electronic media and quantum advancements. Quantum Computers are not magnetically encoded like an HDD is. So, degaussing simply won’t work at all.

Media Disintegrators: A Quantum-Safe Solution

Recognizing the limitations of degaussing, data centers are turning towards more secure methods of data disposal. Media disintegration, a process that physically shreds or pulverizes storage media, offers a particularly good and quantum-safe solution to eliminate sensitive data and prevent security breaches.

Here are some of the benefits of using media disintegrators as part of your data center design and strategy:

• Unprecedented security: Media disintegration provides an unparalleled level of security compared to other methods, as it renders data storage media into minuscule particles. This makes any attempts at data reconstruction futile and helps prevent costly data breaches.
• Environmental responsibility: Unlike some traditional data disposal methods that involve hazardous materials, media disintegration is an environmentally responsible choice that combines well with data center security. The shredded particles can be recycled, minimizing the ecological impact of data disposal, no matter how much media you disintegrate. In fact, the MediaDice A2 is a zero-landfill machine meaning all the e-waste can be recycled.
• Compliance with regulations: Many industries and jurisdictions have stringent data disposal regulations. Media disintegration aligns with these regulations by offering a secure and compliant method of rendering important data unrecoverable.
• Versatility: Media disintegration is applicable to various types of storage media, including hard drives, SSDs, CDs, and DVDs. This versatility makes it a comprehensive solution for data centers dealing with diverse storage technologies. For example, the MediaDice A2 shreds all media including switches, HDDs, SSDs, laptops, tablets, circuit boards, and more.
• Cost-effectiveness: While the initial investment in media disintegration equipment might seem significant, the long-term benefits in terms of security and compliance make it a cost-effective choice for forward-thinking data centers – especially if you opt for an all-in-one solution like the A2!

Conclusion

Quantum computing is looming on the technological horizon, so the need for robust data security measures is more pressing than ever. Degaussing, once a stalwart in data disposal, is proving inadequate against the potential threats posed by quantum computers. Media disintegration, on the other hand, can help your data management center ensure the irretrievable destruction of sensitive information.

Phiston Technologies is the world leader in end-of-life media physical destruction. Our disintegrators, like the MediaDice® All Media Disintegrator A10 and the MediaDice® All Media Disintegrator A2 can deal with all types of media, including hard drives, switches, solid-state drives, and laptops. With a built-in magnetic metal separator, these models are also ideal for environmentally conscious teams.

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