HP boosts encryption for disk arrays and tapes

HP has unveiled new hardware encryption features

HP has unveiled two new security features for its StorageWorks XP Disk Arrays, along with LTO-4 enterprise tape libraries, at the Storage Expo 2008 event in London.

The new hardware encryption features have been added to HP's StorageWorks XP24000 and XP20000 Disk Arrays, and protect the data stored on each disk drive in the array without degrading performance, according to HP.

This reduces the risk of security breaches because, in the event of disks being removed or stolen, the encrypted data is inaccessible, safeguarding against the loss of intellectual property and private information.

HP has also enhanced its Secure Key Manager (SKM) hardware technology which automates encryption key management for its LTO-4 enterprise tape libraries. SKM 1.1 now supports up to two million keys to ensure that multiple tape library installations and future encryption devices are protected.

The new version also helps meet regulatory compliance by providing identity-based access, administration and logging, lifetime key archival and automatic multi-site key replication.

Steve Watson, product marketing manager for HP's StorageWorks division, reckons that tightly integrating these security features into the products helps "give customers the technology they need upfront and all in one place, rather than needing to seek out and pay third parties as well".

"This helps them meet their basic security needs right out of the box, with the option of adding additional security if desired or required," he said.

Encryption for the XP24000 or XP20000 will be available in December with the option to add the feature to existing disk arrays.

Prices will start at around $23,000 (£13,000) but will vary depending on the exact model and configuration. The Secure Key Manager 1.1 will be available in December 2008 from $28,500 (£16,500).