Redkey USB
Redkey USB is a computer utility developed to securely erase data. It is sold as a bootable live USB drive from which the Redkey software can be used on a perpetual license basis.
Developer(s) | Redkey USB Ltd |
---|---|
Initial release | August 27th, 2018 |
Written in | C++ |
Operating system | OS Independent |
Platform | Linux (Debian) |
Available in | 15 languages |
Type | Data erasure |
Website | redkeyusb |
History
The application was first released in August 2018 following a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.[1] Its features and design were partly based on the feedback of the project's supporters who contributed to its development.[2][3]
During 2019, a second Redkey crowdfunding campaign went viral on Indiegogo following a video review by Linus Tech Tips.
In 2020, a third Redkey Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign introduced ATA-based internal erase technology and split the software into three different editions – Home, Professional and Ultimate.
During 2021, Redkey's software was certified to level 1 by ADISA Certification Limited for SSDs and MHDs. Following a re-certification process in 2022, this was upgraded to level 2 and has since been upgraded to level 4.[4][5]
In 2022, a fourth campaign was completed introducing a dual USB-C product design, the ability to wipe mobile devices and remote wiping capabilities.[6][7]
Technology and features
The utility is designed to run on Intel-based x86-64 PCs and Macs. Redkey’s software is written in C++ and uses Linux Debian as a platform.[8] The software utility on the USB erases data on entire drives by overwriting existing data.[9][10] It uses ATA standards to erase hidden areas, such as the DCO and HPA. Other features include unlimited use, reporting, scripting and remote wipe.[11]
References
- "This Key Can Zap Away Your Computer's Personal Data in Three Hours". InsideHook. Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- Horsey, Julian (2018-03-23). "Erase Your Computer Data Before You Sell Using RedKey". Geeky Gadgets. Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- Cáceres, Daniel (2021-11-24). "Destruye todos los datos de tu PC, Mac, móvil y/o tablet con la llave USB que arrasa en Kickstarter". Business Insider España (in Spanish). Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0011/7479/8361/files/RedKey_USB_-_ADPC145_-_Certificate_v1.0.pdf?v=1675213959
- Espectador, El (2021-12-05). "ELESPECTADOR.COM". ELESPECTADOR.COM (in Spanish). Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- "Redkey USB V4 Ultimate". 2021-12-09. Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- Miksa, Martin. "Neplecha ukončena. Redkey USB bezpečně smaže všechna data z mobilu i počítače". MobilMania.cz (in Czech). Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- Ashutosh (2018-03-25). "Completely Erase Your Confidential Data Before Selling Computer - GadgetMeetsGuy". Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- "BTC Articles". computingsecurity.co.uk. Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- Pascual, Juan Antonio (2021-11-24). "Ya puedes comprar la llave USB que destruye todos los datos de móviles y PCs". ComputerHoy (in Spanish). Retrieved 2022-07-29.
- "Redkey USB: Military Grade Security For PCs Desktops & Laptops; Data Gone Forever". davestechsupport.net. Retrieved 2022-07-29.