DIGISTOR Citadel C 2 TB Solid State Drive - 2.5" Internal - SATA - TAA Compliant

Meet the DIGISTOR Citadel C 2 TB SSD, a purpose-built solution for data-at-rest security that blends enterprise-grade encryption with accessible performance. This 2.5" internal SATA drive is designed for environments where safeguarding sensitive information is non-negotiable, yet cost efficiency and ease of deployment remain paramount. Citadel C drives are FIPS-certified self-encrypting drives (SEDs) that integrate multifactor authentication, pre-boot authentication, and robust hardware encryption into a single, streamlined solution. Whether you are outfitting laptops, desktops, servers, or storage arrays, this drive helps you meet stringent security standards without sacrificing performance or manageability.

Security-first storage is the cornerstone of modern data protection strategies, and the Citadel C series goes beyond basic encryption. This drive ensures that data remains encrypted even if the drive is removed from a system or compromised by unauthorized actors. By combining hardware-based encryption with pre-boot authentication (PBA) and multifactor authentication (MFA), DIGISTOR delivers a hardened, auditable, and compliant storage option that integrates seamlessly into existing security frameworks. The 2 TB capacity provides ample space for operating systems, applications, databases, and large archives, while the SATA interface delivers dependable performance with power efficiency—ideal for medium to large deployments that require scalable, secure storage.

• FIPS-certified hardware encryption with MFA and PBA: The Citadel C SSDs embed a hardware-based AES encryption engine and support multifactor authentication and pre-boot authentication, which means access to the data is blocked until verified credentials are supplied. This layered security approach protects data at rest even in the event of device loss or theft, and it reduces the risk of credential replay or malware-based bypass techniques.
• 2 TB capacity in a reliable 2.5" form factor: Designed to fit standard 2.5" drive bays, this SSD delivers ample space for a wide range of workloads—from boot drives and OS partitions to expansive databases and media libraries. The generous capacity pairs with the proven stability of a solid-state design to minimize fragmentation, reduce heat, and improve power efficiency in dense deployment scenarios.
• Internal SATA interface for broad compatibility: With SATA III (6 Gbps) connectivity, the Citadel C drive aligns with a broad ecosystem of desktops, laptops, servers, and enterprise storage controllers. This broad compatibility makes it easy to upgrade existing machines or standardize across fleets without requiring adapters or custom interfaces.
• TAA compliance for government and regulated environments: The Technology Acquisition Regulation (TAR) compliance of this drive makes it suitable for defense, government, and other regulated procurement programs where traceability, auditability, and documented supply chains matter.
• Low-noise, thermally efficient performance: Built for reliability in continuous-use environments, the Citadel C SSD minimizes heat generation and loud operation while delivering steady throughput. The result is a storage solution that fits into laptops and servers without contributing to thermal throttling or noisy workspaces, helping maintain productivity and device longevity.

Technical Details of DIGISTOR Citadel C 2 TB Solid State Drive

• Capacity: 2 TB
• Form Factor: 2.5" Internal
• Interface: SATA III (6 Gbps)
• Security: FIPS-certified self-encrypting drive (SED) with hardware encryption, multifactor authentication (MFA), and pre-boot authentication (PBA)
• Compliance: TAA compliant

How to install DIGISTOR Citadel C 2 TB SSD

Installing the Citadel C 2 TB SSD follows standard procedures for 2.5" SATA drives. Begin by powering down the computer or server and disconnecting it from any power source. Open the chassis or access panel to locate an available 2.5" drive bay. If replacing an existing drive, carefully remove it and set it aside, taking note of any mounting brackets or screws. Mount the Citadel C in the bay using the appropriate screws, ensuring that the connector side is oriented toward the motherboard or storage controller. Connect the SATA data cable and the power connector, then secure the drive in place. Reassemble the system, reconnect power, and boot. In the operating system, initialize the new drive if needed and configure any security features—such as enabling pre-boot authentication or MFA management—according to your security policy. For enterprise deployments, consult your security administrator or DIGISTOR management tools to enable and manage SED encryption, MFA, and PBA across devices. If you are replacing a drive in a laptop, ensure the model supports 2.5" SATA upgrades and follow the manufacturer’s service procedure for removing the existing drive and installing the new one.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What makes the DIGISTOR Citadel C 2 TB SSD different from a standard SATA SSD?
  A: It combines hardware-based encryption with multifactor authentication and pre-boot authentication, delivering data-at-rest protection that remains effective even if the drive is removed from its original system. It is also TAA-compliant, making it eligible for regulated procurement while maintaining typical SATA SSD performance and capacity.
• Q: Is this drive suitable for use in laptops and desktops?
  A: Yes. The 2.5" form factor and SATA interface are widely compatible with laptops, desktops, and some servers. However, verify that your system supports a 2.5" SATA drive and that you meet any vendor-specific requirements for enabling PBA/MFA with your security software or hardware.
• Q: Do I need special software to enable multifactor authentication?
  A: Multifactor authentication and pre-boot authentication are supported features of the Citadel C line. Depending on deployment, you may use DIGISTOR or third-party enterprise security tools to manage MFA and PBA policies. Always follow your organization’s security guidelines to configure and manage access controls.
• Q: Will enabling encryption affect drive performance?
  A: Hardware-based encryption is designed to minimize performance impact. While there is always some overhead compared with a non-encrypted drive, modern SEDs like the Citadel C are engineered to preserve throughput and responsive system behavior, making them suitable for everyday workloads and heavier data-at-rest protection scenarios.
• Q: What kind of environments is this drive intended for?
  A: The Citadel C 2 TB SSD targets enterprise and regulated environments that require strict data-at-rest protection, regulatory compliance (including TAA), and scalable, secure storage. It is well-suited for workstations, laptops, servers, and secure storage arrays that demand robust encryption and auditability.