DIGISTOR Citadel K 256 GB M.2 SATA Self-Encrypting SSD with USB Key Authentication

Engineered for secure, headless deployments where protection of data at rest is paramount, the DIGISTOR Citadel K 256 GB Solid State Drive delivers enterprise-grade security in a compact M.2 2280 form factor. This SATA-based self-encrypting drive (SED) is designed for environments where access control is critical and devices operate without a user interface. By requiring an authorized USB security key to unlock and boot, it provides strong, hardware-level protection against unauthorized access, even if the drive is removed from its host. With TAA compliance and targeted for applications such as UAVs, tactical operations, industrial IoT, and remote deployments, Citadel K helps organizations meet stringent regulatory requirements while maintaining performance, reliability, and compatibility across a wide range of systems.

• Headless security at the core: Citadel K is purpose-built for headless systems. There is no need for a monitor or keyboard during normal operation; instead, the drive stays locked until you present an authorized USB security key, ensuring that the system cannot boot into an unsecured state.
• Hardware-based data protection: This 256 GB self-encrypting drive uses robust hardware encryption to protect data at rest. Encryption is performed inside the drive’s controller, keeping sensitive information inaccessible without the correct authentication, even if the device is physically tampered with.
• USB key authentication for boot control: Access to the system and unlock of the drive is governed by a trusted USB security key. This mechanism provides strong, customer-controlled authentication and helps reduce the risk of password-based or software-based compromise during startup and operation.
• Compact, compatible form factor: The M.2 2280 module with SATA interface fits a broad ecosystem of embedded, rugged, and consumer devices. Its slim footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained laptops, desktops, servers, and specialized hardware used in field deployments.
• Secure, compliant and ready for tough environments: With 256 GB of capacity, the drive is built to meet procurement requirements for sensitive applications. Its TAA compliance supports government and regulated industry use, while its security features are designed to withstand the demands of UAVs, field telemetry, and other tactical or industrial scenarios.

Technical Details of DIGISTOR Citadel K 256 GB Solid State Drive

• Capacity: 256 GB
• Form Factor: M.2 2280
• Interface: SATA
• Type: Self-Encrypting Drive (SED)
• Encryption: Hardware-based, typically AES-family encryption integrated into the drive controller
• Security Features: USB security key authentication required to unlock and boot
• Security Model: Data-at-rest protection with authentication-based access
• Compliance: TAA Compliant
• Intended Use: Headless deployments, UAVs, tactical and industrial environments
• Compatibility Notes: Designed for systems that support M.2 SATA devices; may require BIOS/UEFI configuration to enable USB-key boot workflow

how to install DIGISTOR Citadel K 256 GB SSD

• Prepare the host: Power down the system, unplug all power sources, and locate an available M.2 slot that supports SATA-based M.2 2280 devices. Confirm this slot is intended for storage rather than a PCIe-based interface to avoid compatibility issues.
• Insert the drive: Align the Citadel K module with the slot’s notch and carefully insert the module at a slight angle. Once the edge connector is fully seated, rotate the drive to lie flat against the motherboard or host board.
• Secure the drive: Use the appropriate mounting screw to fix the drive in place. In many systems, the screw is included with the motherboard or with the chassis; if not, obtain a compatible M.2 mounting screw from your hardware vendor.
• Configure boot security: Before first boot, insert an authorized USB security key if you plan to use the headless unlock feature. Enter the system BIOS/UEFI setup to ensure the boot sequence prioritizes the Citadel K drive after authentication, and enable any security or boot-policy options required by your environment.
• Power on and test: Boot the system with the USB security key inserted. The drive should unlock and the operating environment should initialize normally. Remove and reinsert the USB key to verify that access is properly controlled and that the system will not boot without authentication.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What makes the DIGISTOR Citadel K different from a standard SSD? A: Citadel K is a headless, USB-key-authenticated self-encrypting drive. It combines hardware-based data protection with an access-control model that requires an authorized USB security key to unlock and boot, which is ideal for UAVs, defense, and other security-critical deployments.
• Q: What is the benefit of a SATA interface on an M.2 2280 card? A: The SATA interface provides broad compatibility with a wide range of systems that support M.2 SATA devices. This makes it easier to integrate into legacy platforms and embedded systems that do not support PCIe NVMe, while still delivering solid performance and compact form factor.
• Q: Is the Citadel K compliant with government procurement requirements? A: Yes. The drive is TAA compliant, which is often a prerequisite for procurement in government and defense programs.
• Q: Can I use this drive in non-headless configurations? A: While designed for headless use, the Citadel K can function in conventional systems that support M.2 SATA devices. However, the USB key authentication feature is specifically designed to enhance security in headless or security-conscious deployments.
• Q: How does the USB security key work? A: An authorized USB security key must be presented to unlock the drive and permit boot. Without the key, the drive remains locked, protecting data at rest and preventing unauthorized access to the system during startup.
• Q: What environments is Citadel K optimized for? A: It is optimized for secure, remote, or field deployments such as UAVs, tactical networks, industrial IoT, and other environments where access control and data protection are critical.