Destroying Solid State Drives– Size Does Matter

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Oct 29th, 2012

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Companies that are storing and utilizing massive amounts of data are finding solid-state drives (SSDs) enticing as an alternative to traditional, electromechanical disks. These new, efficient drives employ memory chips instead of spinning platters to store information. Because there are no moving parts to the drive, they are typically smaller, last longer, and consume less energy.

A few months ago, we were approached by one of our customers to help them develop a solution with us to securely destroy their solid-state drives that have failed or have been decommissioned. We accepted the challenge and here’s what we found out about the destruction of solid-state drives:

1. Degaussing won’t work. A solid-state drive uses integrated circuit assemblies to store data, unlike traditional hard disk drives. The data on SSDs is virtually unaffected by the method of degaussing. Although degaussing is the absolute best practice for traditional hard drives, it erases data by reducing or eliminating the unwanted magnetic field (information). Because SSDs do not store data magnetically, they are not able to be securely destroyed via traditional methods.

2. Shred particle size is critical. The best practice to destroy a solid-state drive is via hard drive shredding. After a few tests with our client, we discovered that the shred width (particle size) was critical to the success of destroying the small memory chips where the data is stored. Typically, a shred width of ½” or smaller is needed to break through the small memory chips and securely obliterate the data. Many standard industrial shredders will shred to 1” particle size, thus allowing the memory chips to slip through the hammers that shred the data, leaving sensitive information intact. When destroying SSDs, awareness of the appropriate shred width distinction to break through the memory chips is crucial.

3. Trackable inventory is necessary. From cradle to grave, management of IT assets requires a leak-proof system that accounts for the location and status of each asset. With an auditable, trackable, and indisputable inventory record of each destroyed SSD, liability and risk are greatly minimized. If you have sensitive data, assurance that it is gone for good with the correct documentation is not only peace of mind, but can also save you from damages in the event of a breach.

The modernity of this technology has sparked the need for innovation in responsible and secure disposal for SSDs. Knowledge of the best practices when it comes to the last 100 yards of an IT asset’s end-of-life is essential to managing risk. With solid-state drives, always make sure your in-house solution or current vendor is utilizing the correct shredder to guarantee physical destruction of the data. The emergence of solid-state drives is why Securis has invested in the necessary technology to dispose of them properly.

Christopher Madeira
Director of Marketing
ITAD Communications & Strategy Expert
Snapshot / Quick Stats
- 15+ years of experience in marketing strategy, brand development, and communications
- Specialized in IT asset disposition (ITAD) messaging for compliance-driven industries
- Former leadership roles at The Chronicle of Higher Education, CQ Press, and other respected publishers
- Key focus areas: Market Trends, Client Education, ITAD Compliance Messaging, Thought Leadership, SEO-Driven Strategy
Areas of Specialization
- Market Trends & Competitive Analysis – Tracks shifts in ITAD, resale, and sustainability markets to shape strategy and keep Securis ahead of industry developments.
- ITAD Compliance & Security Messaging – Crafts clear narratives that translate regulatory and data security requirements into approachable guidance for IT leaders.
- Client & Stakeholder Education – Builds educational resources and thought leadership content that empower clients to make informed ITAD decisions with confidence.
Professional Narrative (Career Journey)
Christopher Madeira is the Director of Marketing at Securis, where he shapes how the company communicates its mission of Secure, Accurate, and Sustainable IT Asset Disposition to regulated industries, government agencies, and enterprise clients. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and communications, Christopher brings a unique perspective on how to bridge technical ITAD processes with clear, client-centered storytelling.
Before joining Securis, Christopher served in senior marketing roles across publishing and education organizations, including The Chronicle of Higher Education, CQ Press, and Congressional Quarterly. These positions gave him deep expertise in shaping brand positioning, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering content that informs and engages decision-makers.
At Securis, Christopher drives marketing strategies that not only build awareness but also educate IT leaders on data security, compliance, and sustainability best practices. His work ensures that Securis remains a trusted voice in the ITAD industry, aligning brand authority with the company’s core differentiators: Secure, Accurate, and Sustainable services.
Quote
“Clear communication makes complex ITAD issues approachable for IT leaders.”
Thought Leadership & Recognition
Christopher is the author of numerous Securis blog articles on compliance, sustainability, and ITAD strategy. He has also developed content campaigns that help IT decision-makers understand the evolving landscape of secure data destruction, ESG reporting, and value recovery.
Personal
A strategist at heart, Christopher is passionate about helping organizations cut through the noise and understand the real risks — and opportunities — in ITAD. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys exploring D.C.’s history, traveling, connecting with his community, and aviation photography.
Trust & Transparency
Christopher ensures that every piece of Securis’ external communication is not only accurate but also aligned with the certifications and compliance standards that define the company’s reputation. His commitment to transparency reinforces Securis’ standing as a trusted partner for IT asset disposition.
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