DIGISTOR Citadel C 512 GB: M.2 2280 SATA SED with PBA, MFA and FIPS Security

In an era where data at rest is frequently targeted by attackers, the DIGISTOR Citadel C 512 GB SSD delivers a security-first solution without compromising performance or reliability. This M.2 2280 internal drive uses a SATA interface to power a robust hardware encryption engine, ensuring every bit stored on the device remains protected even if the drive is removed from the host or stolen. At the heart of Citadel C is a FIPS-certified self-encrypting drive (SED) that integrates authentication and encryption operations into the hardware layer, providing strong protection against unauthorized access, tampering, and boot-time intrusion. The drive also includes Pre-boot Authentication (PBA) and Multifactor Authentication (MFA) capabilities, which require users to prove their identity before the operating system boots, dramatically reducing the risk of offline attacks or credential theft during startup. This combination of hardware-enforced encryption and flexible authentication makes the Citadel C an ideal choice for organizations handling sensitive customer information, financial data, or regulated records that demand robust data-at-rest protection without imposing complicated software management. Whether you are upgrading a workstation, outfitting a fleet of laptops, or building secure desktops for government or enterprise use, Citadel C 512 GB delivers trusted security, straightforward deployment, and dependable performance in a compact, compatible package.

• Complete data protection with a FIPS-certified SED, hardware encryption, and Pre-boot Authentication (PBA) that activates before the OS boots, preventing boot-time attacks and unauthorized system access.
• Multifactor Authentication (MFA) integrated into the Citadel C security stack adds an extra layer of access control, ensuring only authorized users can unlock the data at rest across devices and locations.
• Compact M.2 2280 form factor with SATA interface enables easy upgrades in laptops, desktops, and workstations without significant chassis changes or downtime, while delivering dependable performance and energy efficiency.
• TAA-compliant hardware supports procurement for federal and regulated environments, helping organizations meet compliance mandates without compromising security or usability.
• Seamless integration with existing security policies and encryption workflows, simplifying key management and reducing total cost of ownership while maintaining strict data protection standards.

Technical Details of DIGISTOR Citadel C 512 GB

• Capacity: 512 GB
• Form Factor: M.2 2280
• Interface: SATA
• Security: FIPS-certified self-encrypting drive (SED) with hardware encryption; includes Pre-boot Authentication (PBA) and Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
• Compliance: TAA compliant

How to install DIGISTOR Citadel C 512 GB

• Power down the system and unplug it from the power source. If you are using a laptop, remove the battery if possible or disconnect the power adapter, and discharge any static charge by touching a grounded metal surface.
• Open the device chassis or back panel to access the M.2 slot. Verify that your motherboard or system supports M.2 SATA drives (some slots are PCIe/NVMe only).
• Handle the Citadel C 512 GB module by the edges to avoid touching the connector. Align the notch on the module with the key in the M.2 slot and insert the card at about a 30-degree angle.
• Gently press the module down and secure it with the mounting screw. Don’t overtighten the screw; a snug fit is sufficient.
• Reconnect power and boot into BIOS/UEFI to confirm the drive is detected. If your security policy requires, enable Pre-boot Authentication (PBA) and enroll or configure Multifactor Authentication (MFA) for startup authentication.
• Save changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. If you are deploying in an enterprise, initialize the drive and configure encryption settings per your IT security policy or management tool. Install the operating system or migrate data as needed.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What makes the DIGISTOR Citadel C 512 GB SSD different from a standard SATA M.2 drive?
A: It combines hardware-based encryption with Pre-boot Authentication (PBA) and Multifactor Authentication (MFA), backed by FIPS-certified security, to protect data at rest and prevent unauthorized access during startup.
• Q: Do I need special software to use the encryption features?
A: The drive relies on hardware encryption and PBA/MFA integration. Depending on your security policy, you may configure or enroll MFA and PBA through your organization’s security management tools or requirements, but no separate software is strictly required to enable basic protection.
• Q: Is this drive suitable for government or regulated environments?
A: Yes. The Citadel C line is designed to be TAA compliant, making it appropriate for government contractors and regulated industries that require hardware-enforced data protection.
• Q: Will this drive work in my laptop or desktop?
A: It uses the M.2 2280 form factor with a SATA interface. It will fit devices that support M.2 SATA drives. Always verify your device’s M.2 compatibility and preferred interface before purchase.
• Q: How does MFA improve security with this drive?
A: MFA requires more than one form of verification to unlock and access the encrypted data at rest, adding an extra barrier beyond a password and reducing the risk of credential theft or unauthorized startup.
• Q: Can I use Citadel C 512 GB alongside other encryption solutions?
A: Yes, it can integrate into existing security policies and workflows. Aligning hardware encryption with your organization’s key management and authentication practices helps streamline compliance and governance while maintaining strong data protection.