A degausser uses a powerful magnetic field to permanently erase data stored on compatible magnetic media.

This can include magnetic hard drives and backup tapes. The process disrupts the magnetic information on the device, making the stored data unrecoverable and usually rendering the media unusable.

No. Solid-state drives, USB drives and other flash-based storage devices do not store data magnetically, so they cannot be erased by degaussing.

These devices require a suitable physical-destruction method or another approved process appropriate to the media and security requirement.

Degaussing erases the magnetic data stored on compatible hard drives and tapes.

Physical destruction damages the media so that it cannot be reused. Depending on the equipment, this may involve crushing, bending, cutting or breaking the device.

Many organisations use both methods for magnetic hard drives where they require permanent data erasure followed by visible physical destruction.

Not in every situation, but physical destruction can provide an additional layer of control and may form part of an organisation’s internal security policy.

The correct process depends on the type of media, sensitivity of the information, applicable standards and the evidence required after processing.

Varese Secure can help you compare degaussing-only systems with combined degauss-and-destroy packages.

Available equipment can process different types of media, including:

• Magnetic hard drives
• Backup tapes
• Solid-state drives
• USB flash drives
• Mobile-device storage components
• Optical media, depending on the destroyer

Compatibility varies by machine, so the media type, dimensions and volume should be confirmed before selecting equipment.

Verification systems can record identifying information for each asset and create an auditable processing record.

Depending on the system, this may include:

• Serial number or barcode
• Operator details
• Date and time
• Equipment used
• Process result
• Photographs
• Asset notes
• Destruction certificate or report

Varese Secure can advise on Garner IRONCLAD and other verification options based on the level of traceability required.

A certificate of destruction is a record showing that a specified asset was processed under an organisation’s data-destruction procedure.

It may include the asset identifier, date, operator, destruction method and equipment used. The exact content depends on the verification system and the organisation’s reporting process.

A generated certificate supports record keeping but should not be presented as independent regulatory approval.

Yes. Selected degaussers and physical media destroyers are available to rent, subject to availability and rental terms.

Rental may be suitable for a one-off project, temporary capacity increase or short-term data-disposal programme.

Contact Varese Secure with the media type, approximate quantity, location and required rental period so the team can recommend suitable equipment.

Some physical destroyers can process more than one media type, while others are designed for a narrower range of devices.

A magnetic degausser cannot erase an SSD. Where an organisation handles both magnetic and solid-state media, a combined equipment package may be required.

Degaussing can support an organisation’s secure media-disposal process by permanently erasing compatible magnetic data.

It does not by itself guarantee GDPR compliance. Compliance also depends on wider policies, lawful processing, asset control, staff procedures, record keeping and the organisation’s ability to demonstrate appropriate technical and organisational measures.