ProtectStar secure deletion algorithm

The "ProtectStar Secure Deletion Algorithm" is a special design data deletion algorithm, developed by ProtectStar, Inc. (1)and ProtectStar Research (2).

This deletion algorithm that has been specially developed and protected by ProtectStar R&D (inventor: Christopher Bohn) under the name of "ProtectStar™ Secure Deletion Algorithm" offers users one of the highest security on the market in data deletion (likewise the secure data deltion from Peter Gutmann).

The algorithm is based on various recognised high security processes that build up on each other.

In a first step, all the data is over-written with random values in two passes, and then twice with their complement. To finish off, there is one further pass with random values.

In a second step, all the data will then be overwritten with three passes of the Department of Defense (DoD) 5220.22-M (E) Standards, and then with a random value, and finally once again through DoD 5220.22-M (E) The method used here in the second step, with a total of seven passes (DoD 5220.22-M ECE), is based on the “National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual”, NISPOM, of the DoD dated January 1995.

In the last pass, the data will be overwritten by the thirty five passes defined by Peter Gutmann and then by three further passes defined by ProtectStar R&D. In total, the “ProtectStar™ Secure Deletion Algorithm” consists of 50 passes, which guarantees the maximum security for the deletion of data.

The algorithm is used, for example, in the “ProtectStar™ Data Shredder” data deletion program for Microsoft Windows from ProtectStar.

The algorithm can be purchased by individuals for analysis and for personal use and can be integrated into certain products intended for the private sphere.

Companies have the possibility of licensing the encryption algorithms via and OEM agreement and of integrating them into hardware or software solutions.