Product Description

BUSlink CipherShield Encrypted External Slim Drive

Ultimate Protection for Classified and Confidential Data

The BUSlink CipherShield Slim Drive is designed to safeguard sensitive information when data security cannot be entrusted to a single individual. Access to the drive is controlled through a unique CipherKey, providing robust physical authentication. The drive requires the CipherKey to be plugged in to authenticate, similar to a safe deposit box that opens only with the proper key.

This solution is ideal for group environments where multiple authorized users need secure access to highly confidential data, such as product designs, classified projects, legal case files, customer records, and financial documents.

Smart Insert Technology with CipherKey

CipherShield drives feature Smart Insert technology, offering two intelligent key modes that give users complete control over how data is accessed and protected:

• Mode 0 (Standard) – Enables authentication and access only when the CipherKey is inserted. Removing the key instantly encrypts all data, preventing unauthorized access.

• Mode 1 (Hotplug Mode) – Ideal for large data transfers or backup operations. The drive can be authenticated once, then continue running even after the key is removed. When the USB or power cable is disconnected, the drive automatically locks down its contents, ensuring data security even if the device is lost or stolen.

Only select models are available in Mode 1; others can be specially ordered through BUSlink or authorized resellers.

Uncompromising Hardware-Based Security

Each CipherShield drive integrates a chip-embedded CipherKey that matches the AES encryption module on the drive’s controller board. Once the key is removed or power is lost, the drive automatically locks and encrypts its data—making it inaccessible to unauthorized users.

Data is protected by NIST-certified AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) 256-bit hardware encryption, compliant with FIPS 140-2 Level 2. Unlike software encryption, hardware-based protection operates independently of the computer’s operating system, safeguarding data from viruses, Trojans, and OS-level threats. Users never need to remember complex passwords or PINs.

Since encryption is handled entirely in hardware, even direct SATA access cannot bypass the security layer. Each unit includes one CipherKey, with registration required for secure key duplication.

Key Features

• Solid-State Drive (SSD) – Delivers durability, faster performance, and shock resistance.
• USB Bus-Powered – No external power adapter required for operation.
• Two CipherKey Operation Modes available:
  • Physical CipherKey Authentication (Mode 0) – Access controlled by a hardware key; no passwords or PINs required.
  • Physical CipherKey Authentication (Mode 1) – Requires CipherKey insertion for authentication; the key may be safely removed while the device is powered on. Ideal for office or controlled environments where manual key insertion and removal are feasible.

• AES 256-bit Hardware Encryption – NIST FIPS 140-2 Level 2 certified for enterprise-grade protection.

• Compliance Ready – Meets HIPAA, HITECH, FERPA, and Sarbanes-Oxley requirements.

• Smart Insert Technology – Two key modes available to purchase for flexible operation and convenience.

• Full Disk Encryption (FDE) – Encrypts the entire drive with real-time, on-the-fly protection.

• Independent Operation – Works without software drivers; fully OS-independent.

• Plug-and-Play Design – No installation or configuration required.

• Hardware Key Removable – Store securely when not in use to prevent unauthorized access.

• High Performance – USB 3.2 Gen 1 (3.0): up to 5 Gbps

• Preformatted NTFS SATA Drive – Ready for Windows; easily reformatted for macOS or Linux.

System Requirements

• USB 3.2 Gen 1 (3.0) port (backward compatible)

• eSATA port with AHCI mode for hot-plug support

• Compatible with:

  • Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista

  • Windows Server 2025, 2022, 2019, 2016, 2012, 2008, 2003

  • macOS X 10.4 or later

  • Linux

Package Contents

• CipherShield Encrypted External Slim SSD Drive

• 1 CipherKey

• USB A-to-micro B Cable

• User Manual