Degaussing is the process of totally erasing data by reducing or eliminating an unwanted magnetic field (information) stored on tape and disk media. A degausser is a machine that changes the magnetic domain (where the data is stored) of magnetic data storage devices.
When the degausser is applied to magnetic domains the information is scrambled into random patterns, making the data stored in the magnetic domain completely unreadable.
While degaussers were traditionally used for hard drive destruction, we can now achieve more. Securis is also able to offer complete, certified data destruction of high-coercivity tape such as DLT, SDLT, 3480’s and AIT.
When it comes to Degaussing there are two important considerations:
Θ Hard drives that don’t work still contain their data information and might put your company at risk if they are not degaussed before disposal.
Θ Degaussing is the first step in ultra secure computer disposal and e-waste recycling
Degauss for the Ultimate in Secure Data Destruction
As part of our certified data destruction program, we ensure that hard drives are no longer reusable after degaussing. Degaussing will remove not only your data and traditional hard drive formatting but also the control/servo track information. Once a drive is degaussed, all data will have been rendered permanently unrecoverable.
At Securis, we follow up degaussing with hard drive shredding to give absolute peace of mind that complete data destruction has been achieved. Our specialized IT Asset destruction process culminates with an audit-ready IT inventory list and a certificate of destruction.
Θ Securis provides on-site and off-site hard drive, backup LTO and DLT tape degaussing services.
Θ Our NSA-approved LM4 degausser is used for optimum data destruction.
Θ Our hard drive and tape degaussing service options are fully compliant with all National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication Series 800-88 and National Industrial Security Program (NISP) Operating Manual 32 CRF Part 117 (which replaced DOD 5220.22-M).
Θ Our degausser is recertified annually by the manufacturer.
Please read our blog article for a more detailed look at the degaussing process.
FAQ's About Degaussing
What is a Degausser?
A degausser is a machine that changes the magnetic domain of magnetic data storage devices where data is stored. Examples include backup LTO/DLT tapes, VHS tapes, cassettes, reel-to-reel tapes, and hard drives. (Compact Discs are not magnetic; CDs store data optically.) When a degausser is applied, the information is scrambled into random patterns, rendering the data unreadable.
Some older magnetic media (e.g., reel-to-reel, VHS) can technically be reused after degaussing, but due to limited capacity this is uncommon. For newer storage like server hard drives and some backup tapes, degaussing permanently damages the device by erasing factory-written servo control data, making the media unusable.
Why is Degaussing Necessary?
Physical destruction alone does not remove data; it makes the device unusable, but magnetic fragments can still hold readable data. While recovery from shredded pieces is unlikely for most, it’s possible with enough resources. Because data is stored magnetically, even small pieces retain magnetic properties. Degaussing neutralizes these magnetic domains so the data cannot be read.
When is Degaussing Required?
For some federal requirements involving classified (e.g., “Classified” or “Top Secret”) information, degaussing is required—typically followed by physical destruction—per agency standards for sanitization and destruction of sensitive data.
How is Your Service Licensed? What is the Cost Model?
Our services are customized based on your quantity, frequency, and desired level of security.
Do You Provide this Service On-site or at Your Site?
Our degausser is internally mounted and powered by a 26’ box truck, so we can provide on-site degaussing at your facility. We also degauss off-site at our secure, NAID-certified facility (typically once or twice a week). For maximum assurance, we recommend on-site degaussing followed by on-site shredding.
Doesn’t the Degausser Need Periodic Calibration?
Yes. We monitor magnetic fields using a program called FieldCheckR and verify the degausser before every run. Not all degaussers support this kind of digital read-out verification.
Can You Degauss Solid State Drives?
No. SSDs do not store data magnetically and cannot be degaussed. See our blog for best practices on SSD destruction.
Is There a “Degaussing” Equivalent or “Absolute Best Practice” of Data Destruction for Solid State Drives?
Yes. Secure data shredding with controlled shred width/particle size is the most secure method for SSDs and flash media. View more information on our blog by clicking this link.
If Degaussing is the Best Way to Destroy Data, Why Would I Shred My Hard Drives Too?
Shredding adds redundancy. Since a degaussed drive doesn’t look different from an unde-gaussed drive, shredding after degaussing provides visual, physical confirmation of destruction
What Types of Companies Should Use Degaussing?
Organizations with zero tolerance for leaks and highly sensitive or regulated data (mission-critical information, financial data, PHI/PII, etc.). Most organizations process sensitive data (e.g., bank details, Social Security numbers, HR records) and can benefit from degaussing within an ITAD program.
Data Destruction
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