Data erasure according to NIST SP 800-88
Software-based erasure, device remains usable
If the device can be reused, we erase it using software according to NIST SP 800-88: Clear or Purge, with verification of all sectors. You receive a certificate per device and the equipment remains usable, for example for remarketing.
030 123 45 67
Which erasure method for which device
NIST SP 800-88 defines two software-based levels. Clear overwrites the data with a standard pattern; Purge uses the device's own erasure function, such as cryptographic erasure on an SSD. After erasure we verify all sectors, only then do we issue the certificate.
sectors verified after erasure
levels: Clear and Purge (example)
certificate per device, within 2 working days (example)
Which device, which erasure method
NIST SP 800-88 links the erasure method to the type of device. On the left the method itself, on the right what happens to the proof afterwards. If erasure fails, the device automatically goes into the physical route.
- HDD (magnetic)Clear · Purge
Overwriting, followed by verification of all sectors
- SSD / NVMePurge
Cryptographic erasure or the device's own sanitize command
- Laptop / desktopClear · Purge
Device erased inside the equipment, equipment remains usable
- Smartphone / tabletPurge
Factory reset with encryption and verification
- USB / SD / flashClear
Overwriting where the controller allows it
- VerificationVerification
All sectors checked after erasure
- Erasure logRecorded
Method, date and result recorded per device
- CertificatePer device
Per device, with serial number and method
- ReuseResidual value
Equipment goes on to repair or remarketing
- If verification failsDestroy
Device automatically goes into the physical route (Destroy)
How data erasure works at RQNX IT
Every step is recorded in the erasure log and can be traced per serial number in your dossier.
1
Registration
Serial number, model and device recorded on arrival or at your site
2
Erasure and verification
Clear or Purge according to NIST SP 800-88, with verification of all sectors
3
Certificate
Erasure log and certificate per device: method, verification, date, signature
Questions about data erasure
What is the difference between Clear and Purge?
Clear overwrites the data with a standard pattern. Purge uses the device's own erasure function, such as cryptographic erasure or the sanitize command on an SSD. Both are verified before the certificate is issued.
Does the device remain usable after erasure?
Yes. Software-based erasure is designed for exactly that: the device remains functional, so the equipment can go on to repair or remarketing.
What happens if verification fails?
Then the device automatically goes into the physical route (Destroy): shredding, after degaussing for magnetic media if required.
Does this also work for SSDs?
Yes, via Purge: cryptographic erasure or the device's sanitize command, with verification afterwards.
Request a quote for data erasure, or request a free valuation first. We respond within one working day. Other services: On-site data destruction, Hard drive shredding, SSD destruction, Data centre decommissioning.
Email us
Response within one working day
info@rqnx-it.com
Visiting address (example)
Mon to Fri, 8.00 to 17.30
Industrieweg 12, 3542 AD Utrecht (example address)
Call us
Prefer to talk directly?
030 123 45 67 (example number)
Request a quote or collection
Send a list of device types and quantities, or describe the situation.