A legacy of secure solutions by Kingston IronKey - Kingston Technology

Forged to be secure

Non-encrypted drives

When data is taken outside of the office, your existing cybersecurity and data loss prevention policies can no longer keep you safe, making your data a soft target. Luckily IronKey drives provide on-the-go file storage with the ultimate portable security strategy.

Software-encrypted drives

The hard truth is that software-based encryption isn't enough. While it has its advantages, it may not match its perception as being comprehensive. It's only as secure as the device it is used on. In contrast, hardware-based encryption offers a more robust solution. So, if you’re only software-secure, it’s time to harden defences.

Cloud storage

The cloud is not under your control. With unlimited password attempts, your files can continuously get attacked. Fortunately, IronKey devices meet the toughest security and compliance standards.

Family image of Kingston IronKey devices including encrypted USB drives and SSDs

Hardware-encrypted storage options for data protection

Safeguard important data with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified, FIPS 197 certified and XTS-AES 256-bit encryption capable devices. Additionally, there are built-in protections against BadUSB and brute force attacks.

Multi-password option for data recovery

Enable Admin, User and One-Time Recovery passwords. Admin can reset a User password and create a One-Time Recovery password to restore User’s access to data. Brute force attack protection locks out User or One-Time Recovery passwords if 10 invalid passwords are entered in a row, and crypto-erases the drive if the Admin password is entered incorrectly 10 times in a row.

Passphrase mode

Select between Complex or Passphrase password mode. Passphrases can be a numeric PIN, sentence with space characters, list of words or even lyrics – from 10 to 64 characters long.

Dual read-only (write-protect) settings

Avoid malware attacks with a forced Read-Only mode set by Admin for User, or a session based Read-Only mode set by Admin or User.

Easily manage thousands of drives for enterprise deployment

Centrally administer access and usage policies for enterprise model versions of selected drives.

Locally manage drives for small and medium businesses

Use Admin role to locally manage employee User and One-Time Recovery passwords, recover data access on locked drives, and comply with laws and regulations when forensics are required.

IronKey origins

IronKey Inc. was an internet security and data privacy company established in 1996. IronKey received a grant from the US Department of Homeland Security in 2004 to develop a secure, tamper-resistant USB Flash drive, primarily for use by the US government and military. The IronKey brand soon grew quickly as the need for secure portable devices became evident: the biggest security threat to corporate and government users was the frequent loss or theft of data stored on USB drives.

In 2016, Kingston Technology, which had been manufacturing and delivering hardware-encrypted products since 2007, purchased IronKey. “Kingston IronKey” was born – and became the largest, best-known maker of hardware-encrypted USB drives in the world..

Powered by 35+ years of Kingston quality

Exceptional service

Our commitment to excellence ensures that we meet or exceed your business needs.

Passionate people

Our positive culture and exceptional people are what make our company great.

Dependable reliability

For over thirty-five years, Kingston has been delivering solutions to businesses of every size, from start-ups to global Fortune 500 companies.

Kingston IronKey Vault Privacy 50 Series
Enterprise-grade security

XTS-AES 256-bit hardware encryption

Available in Type-A and Type-C USB

USB 3.2 Gen 1

8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

Up to 310MB/s read, 250MB/s write
Learn more Buy
Kingston IronKey Keypad 200 Series USB Flash Drive
Military-grade FIPS 140-3 Level 3 (Pending) security

XTS-AES 256-bit hardware encryption

Available in Type-A and Type-C USB

Device/OS independent

8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

Up to 280MB/s read, 200MB/s write
Learn more Buy
Kingston IronKey D500S hardware-encrypted USB flash drive
Military-grade FIPS 140-3 Level 3 (Pending) security

XTS-AES 256-bit hardware encryption

USB 3.2 Gen 1

8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

Up to 310MB/s read, 250MB/s write
Learn more Buy
Kingston IronKey S1000 Encrypted USB Flash Drive
On-device cryptochip

USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB 3.0)

4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB

Up to 230MB/s read, 240MB/s write

Complex password or passphrase security
Learn more Buy
Kingston IronKey Vault Privacy 80 External SSD
XTS-AES 256-bit encryption

USB 3.2 Gen 1

960GB, 1920GB, 3840GB, 7680GB

Up to 250MB/s read, 250MB/s write
Learn more Buy

NIS2, DORA and the significant role of encrypted storage – Expert insights

We discuss NIS2 and DORA, and how organisations can turn compliance into an opportunity.
Changing behaviours towards encrypted storage – Expert insights

We discuss the shifts in how organisations are storing and encrypting sensitive data.
Emailed password-protected documents: the new and silent breach

Kingston examines how to secure sensitive files with the increasing vulnerability of email.
The NIS2 directive: Strengthening cybersecurity against cybercrime

Learn how Kingston IronKey hardware-encrypted solutions supports NIS2 Directive compliance.
Enhance small business cybersecurity with Kingston Ironkey

Kingston IronKey has hardware options to protect small and medium businesses against cybercrime.
Why you need to upgrade to FIPS 140-3 Level 3, military-grade mobile data protection

FIPS 140-3 Level 3 is certified by the world-leading agency NIST as the apex of encryption.
Find the best SSD for your data center

Questions to ask when seeking the right SSD for your organisation’s data center.
- Data Security
- Encrypted USB
What is the difference between software and hardware-based encryption?

Our infographic showcases the differences between software and hardware-based encryption.
How to securely password protect files and drives

Hardware, not software-based password protection, is the best way to protect files and drives.
2024: Technology experts’ predictions

2023 has been a year full of challenges and innovations. But what will 2024 bring?
- Data Security
- Encrypted USB
How to protect your SMB from ransomware

Learn about two methods that give SMBs superior resilience vs ransomware: encryption and backups.
How to allow USB drive access without compromising endpoint security

In this whitepaper, we explain how to enforce a DLP strategy, while allowing USB drive use.
Enterprise-grade versus military-grade security: what’s the difference?

Enterprise-grade and military-grade digital security: two high standards with different requirements.
A secure cloud in your pocket: hardware-encrypted drives for travelling lawyers

Learn how hardware encryption can protect a travelling lawyer’s confidentiality with secure file storage.
The benefits of penetration testing for hardware encrypted drives

How is pen testing ensuring Kingston IronKey USB drives lead the way in trusted data security?
25% rise in lost devices reveals data security threat for Londoners

Hardware encrypted Kingston IronKey drives protects organisations’ data on the move.
Bring your own device: security measures for personal devices in the workplace

Bring your own device (BYOD) policy is tricky for employers. How to balance security & convenience?
Encrypted drives in finance – a must for cybersecurity and compliance

How do encrypted drives improve cybersecurity and compliance for finance companies? Kingston explains.
What is data loss prevention (DLP)?

DLP offers tools for network admins to protect sensitive data from cybercrime and negligence.
The hard truth of proper security for healthcare data

A look at how the requirement for data encryption can be key to any organisation's security strategy.
- Encrypted USB
- Data Security
Staying secure when remote or travelling

How can we bolster network security with remote working and international travel so common now?
Encrypted USB flash drives: Cheaper than legal fees

Invest in encrypted drives so you do not incur expensive legal fees if they are lost or stolen.
- Encrypted USB
- Data Security
What is encryption and how does it work?

Looking for improved data security & need to know what is encryption? Kingston covers the basics.
Why is Kingston IronKey trusted by national cybersecurity organisations?

Discover why national security agencies trust Kingston IronKey to protect their data.
Hybrid working environments will mean increased data vulnerability

A company’s IT specialists should be expected to add data security to the PCs of remote workers.
What you need to know when building your data loss prevention strategy

Kingston’s three key practices for robust DLP for businesses that handle sensitive data.
Using an encrypted USB flash drive with an iPhone or iPad

You can read and write to an encrypted USB flash drive with an iPad or iPhone with the right adaptor. Here’s how.
Safeguard your law firm’s sensitive data with hardware-encrypted drives, not software

Learn why hardware encryption beats software encryption for law firm data protection.
- Data Security
- Encrypted USB
What is data security software?

A brief explaining the purpose and types of data security software available.
- Encrypted USB
- Data Security
The benefits of passphrases

Passphrases are superior to complex passwords for keeping data secure, with many powerful benefits.
- Data Security
- Encrypted USB
Secure data in transit

HIPAA requires healthcare organisations to keep patient data safe at all times, including in transit.
NYDFS 23 NYCRR 500 Cybersecurity Requirements

This requires encryption of sensitive data, appointing a Security Officer, cyber security programmes and policy adoption.
Security for all sizes – Proactive protection from SME to enterprise!

Kingston IronKey encrypted USBs are a security consideration for organisations of all sizes.
USB storage: Does hardware encryption prevent risks?

We compare unencrypted and encrypted USB drives and explain how to keep data secure!
How an energy specialist protected their partner's IP with Kingston IronKey

Learn how Kingston IronKey is protecting the intellectual property with customisation.
How does Kingston IronKey protect global financial services?

Discover why Kingston IronKey is the go-to solution for protecting financial services data.
Why does the military rely on Kingston IronKey?

Learn how Kingston IronKey is securing the military operations’ data.
Using and promoting encrypted USB flash drives in your organisation

How can you get your organisation to use encrypted drives and make them part of your security policy? Here are some tips.
Prevent telecoms data leaks in the field with Kingston IronKey

Learn how Kingston IronKey is protecting telecoms industry's data using encryption.
Encrypted storage for creatives

Encryption is an incredibly helpful option for creatives to protect their clients’ important files.
How Kingston IronKey can be a strategic performer

Kingston IronKey encrypted USBs: a small but important part of any organisation’s security strategy.
Post pandemic commuters are 22% more likely to lose their devices

Kingston IronKey can help mitigate data loss due to the rise in lost electronic devices.
Why are USB drives still relevant today?

In this eBook, we explore how Encrypted USB drives have become a key tool in keeping data secure.
Setting Up Kingston IronKey^™ Vault Privacy 80 External SSD

How to use your IronKey Vault Privacy 80 External SSD: set password, connecting to a PC and more.
Protect Private Mobile Data in Healthcare

Organisations are considering data security options to protect against private mobile data breaches.
Finance industry: Keeping sensitive data safe with Kingston IronKey

Discover how Kingston IronKey is protecting the sensitive data of the finance sector.
Protecting critical data in the energy sector with Kingston IronKey encrypted drives

Here is how Kingston IronKey helped protect the sensitive data of the Energy industry.
Cybersecurity – How to stay ahead in 2022

We explore our KingstonCognate experts’ thoughts on cyberthreats and cybersecurity challenges.
Transporting and protecting data outside your firewall

Protecting data on the move with superior hardware-based Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256.
Software encryption and regulatory compliance: Less expensive solution with major security risks

Users can disable software-based encryption, which can lead to legal fees if the drive is lost.
How to stay secure in a digitised world

We explore Tomasz Surdyk's thoughts on how all entities can stay secure in the digitised world.
FBI warns that hackers are mailing malware on USB drives to their targets

Don’t plug any USB drives into your computer if you don’t know exactly where they came from.
- Data Security
- Work From Home
- Client
- Cloud
- SSD
- Encrypted USB
What businesses need in their work-from-home enablement

What we learned from Kingston’s experts and tech influencers on work-from-home enablement Twitter chat.
Is encrypted storage needed if you use the cloud?

There are benefits to using both cloud storage and hardware-based encryption.
Top 12 tips SMEs can take to enhance cybersecurity

We explore the top 12 tips small and medium size enterprises can take to enhance cybersecurity.
Kingston’s 3 predictions for the data center and enterprise IT in 2022

We’ve examined several factors using unique research to identify what may impact markets globally in 2022.
2022: Technology expert predictions

2021 has been a year full of challenges and innovations. But what will 2022 bring?
How to close the security gap for small and medium size enterprises

Prof Sally Eaves shares her thoughts on the SME cybersecurity landscape and the need for education & support.
Sustained commitment required for cybersecurity

Bill Mew shares his thoughts how the largest security challenges need commitment from the boardroom.
Are you close to the edge? Why edge computing needs security

Rob May shares his thoughts on how close we are to edge computing and the security it requires.
How does hardware-based SSD encryption work? Software vs hardware, AES 256-bit and TCG Opal 2.0

Secure important personal and private information on a PC with a hardware-encrypted SSD.
The critical roles of data centers during COVID-19

The pandemic has increased internet traffic, which has placed importance on the role of data centers.
Data loss prevention in our remote working world

The use of DLP software, VPNs, Encrypted SSDs and USBs, will help mitigate some risks of remote working.
Should I Make the Switch to NVMe?

Cameron Crandall of Kingston helps you decide if you should move to your server storage to NVMe SSDs.
What is the difference between hardware vs software-based encryption for encrypted USB flash drives? - Kingston Technology

There are many advantages to using a dedicated hardware encryption processor in USB flash drives.
Influencers Tech insights for 2021

What will 2021 bring in Tech and trends? What do our KingstonCognate members and industry experts predicting for the future?
Who is responsible for cyber security and privacy?

Cyber security and data privacy are everyone’s responsibility. What are the key considerations?
Kingston SSDs are the best hardware choice for Software Defined Storage solutions

Learn why the future of business depends on SSD-enabled SDS, and how SSD fits into a Software Defined Storage Solutions.
Optimal Endpoint Security Explained and Explored in Partnership with Matrix42

Kingston & Matrix42 partnered to give optimal endpoint security solution in multiple sectors to mitigate risks.
C-Suites need to stop taking unnecessary risks

The importance of organisations to consider Revenue, Profit & Risk as equal in organisations to ensure they mitigate data security & cyber security risks. Read this article from Industry Expert, Bill Mew & he will provide you with an insight on this topic.
Twitter Chat: Security Experts and Privacy Discuss GDPR in 2020

What do industry experts think has changed since the introduction of GDPR?
Rip and Replace vs Predictability: Why SSDs with Predictable Latency Matters

Data centres should be using server SSDs. There are many benefits over client drives and costs have come down.
The benefits of NVMe in enterprise

NVMe is now the standard protocol for SSDs to empower data centres and enterprise environments.
Four things data centre managers can learn from the fastest supercomputers

Cloud and on-premise data centre managers can learn a lot from supercomputing.
Case Study: Accelerating virtual machines with Kingston DC500M SSDs

Find out how Hardwareluxx were able to manage the growth of their web traffic using Kingston's DC500M SSD.
Is Now the Time for SDS (Software Defined Storage)?

SDS hasn’t lived up to its hype but now that NVMe is more affordable, the commodity hardware is ready to deliver.
The Right Solid-State Drive (SSD) Matters

Choosing the right SSD for your server is important since server SSDs are optimized to perform at a predictable latency level while client (desktop/laptop) SSDs are not. These difference result in better uptime and less lag for critical apps and services.
Work From Home Tips and Tricks

To work from home you need a good workspace for your PC, the right conferencing gear, and a secure connection.
Data Protection and Cyber Security in a Post-GDPR Landscape - Kingston Technology

What strategies can organisations use to best secure customers data in a post-GDPR world with the ever-evolving nature of cyber security threats? Kingston pooled the knowledge of some of the UK’s most experienced commentators in cyber security to discuss how data protection has changed since the introduction of GDPR.
Improve SQL Server Performance with DC500M Enterprise SSDs

This whitepaper demonstrates how using Kingston Technology’s Data Centre DC500 SSDs can reduce your overall capital and licence costs by 39%.
Mobile Workforce Security eBook - challenges of mobile workforce security

You already know that remote working is a business enabler. But the challenges posed to your network security and compliance with GDPR are too big to ignore.
- Data Security
Enabling and Disabling BitLocker with eDrive to Utilise Hardware Encryption

How to enable and disable Microsoft’s BitLocker eDrive feature to leverage hardware encryption on your Kingston SSD.
- Data Security
Encrypted USB Flash Drive Industry Alliances

Some of Kingston and IronKey's Secure USB Flash drives are powered by partners, licensed technology, or services.
- Data Security
- Data Security
AES-XTS Block Cipher Mode is used in Kingston's best secure USB Flash Drives

256-bit AES hardware-based XTS block cipher mode encryption is used in DT 4000G2 and DTVP 3.0.
A Closer Look At SSD Power Loss Protection

Firmware/hardware PFAIL protection is an highly effective method for preventing data loss in enterprise SSD.
SSDs for Online Transaction Processing (OLTP)

Kingston datacenter SSDs provide excellent resiliency to protect sensitive data in OLTP workloads.
SSDs for High-Performance Computing (HPC)

HPC can require massive amounts of data. SSDs consume a fraction of the power of their spinning disk.
The Difference Between Enterprise & Client SSD

The differences between SSD classes lies in two components; the processor and the NAND memory.
ECC and Spare Blocks help to keep Kingston SSD data protected from errors

End-to-End Data Protection protects customer’s data as soon as it is transferred by the host system to the SSD, and then from the SSD to the host computer. All Kingston SSDs incorporate this protection.
- Data Security
Secure Customisation Programme

This program offers the options most frequently requested by customers, including serial numbering, dual password and custom logos. With a minimum order of 50 pieces, the programme delivers precisely what your organisation needs.
- Data Security
- Article
Risk of Data Breaches, How To Prevent Them in Compliance with EU GDPR

Everyday working life has changed radically and so have traditional ways of working: thanks to mobile storage media, we can access our data practically at any time from any location, and can work on our data wherever we are.
- Data Security
Kingston's FIPS Compliance for Encrypted Storage

Most IronKey and Kingston secure USB flash drives are FIPS 140-2 Certified.
Major recent example of an unencrypted USB breach

Heathrow Airport in London (30 October 2017) uses unencrypted USB drives for its non-cloud storage. Unfortunately, it was not standardized on encrypted USB drives.
SSDs for Virtual Desktop Infrastructure

Storage can be the most challenging component for VDI performance.
Solid-State Drive Testing 101

Testing is a cornerstone of our commitment to deliver the most reliable products on the market. We perform rigorous tests on all of our products during each stage of production. These tests ensure quality control throughout the entire manufacturing process.