This KB explains step-by-step instructions on how to erase all the sensitive records stored in servers using BitRaser Drive Eraser software. BitRaser Drive Eraser can successfully wipe all servers like PowerEdge server series, Dell PowerEdge R720, Dell PowerEdge R730xd, Dell PowerEdge R740, HPE Proliant XL 740, Rack Servers, and more.
What is a Server?
A server can be referred to as a computer that provides processing and memory resources for different capabilities and supports network-based operations. Linux, Unix, and Windows are the most commonly used server operating systems (OS). While the physical servers are predominantly presented in racks, blades, and mainframes. Servers play a significant role in consolidating resources, streamlining information, and increasing productivity. As a result, they reduce the overall cost of data management.
The server hardware comprises different types of storage drives including Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA), Serial ATA (SATA), Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), Solid State Drives (SSD), and NVM Express to save and recover digital information for future reference. Hard drives are non-volatile in nature and retain confidential data even once no longer required. Such concrete information stored in the server remains vulnerable till completely wiped beyond recovery.
BitRaser Drive Eraser is a simple plug-and-play application that erases all kinds of drives on the servers including SATA, SCSI, SAS, and FC with different block sizes, be it 512, 520, or 4096 bytes per sector. Using a Supermicro or equivalent Rackmount Server, Drive Caddie, or Drive Chasis, the storage devices will be connected to a server where BitRaser is operational. It can dismantle most LSI, HP, and Adaptec Raid Controller cards.
How to Perform Secure Wipe of Servers?
Follow the three stages of data eraser to permanently wipe clean multiple hard drives racked in a server:
Key Requirements:
Internet: WiFi or Ethernet
Processor: x64 Processor
RAM: 16 GB Recommended
USB Device: 2 GB or more to create BitRaser bootable
Stage 1: Download the ISO Image
- Login to your BitRaser cloud account. Click on the profile icon on the home screen to download the BitRaser Drive Eraser ISO file.
- Download ISO File
Stage 2: Burn BitRaser Drive Eraser ISO
- Write the downloaded ISO file on a USB drive using a free utility (we recommend the latest version of the Rufus application) to create a bootable application.
- Click on the Start button and click on Yes to initiate the process of writing the BitRaser ISO image on the USB drive.
Stage 3: Proceed to Securely Erase Servers
Well done! You have successfully erased the desired number of drives on the server.
A digitally signed report of all the drives successfully erased will automatically save on your BitRaser Cloud account. You can also download the data erasure certificate to act as an audit trail for meeting compliance.
Follow our Help Manual to get detailed instructions for performing secure erasure with BitRaser Drive Eraser.