Apricorn launches 32TB offline encrypted desktop drive

Apricorn has launched a 32TB version of its Aegis Padlock DT FIPS desktop drive, which it describes as the largest hardware-encrypted external drive currently available.

The new model expands the Aegis Padlock DT FIPS range to 13 capacities, from 2TB to 32TB. It is aimed at organisations that need to store large volumes of sensitive information outside networked systems, including users in government, healthcare, financial services, energy and manufacturing.

The launch comes as companies face rising data retention demands while trying to reduce exposure to cyber attacks targeting connected systems. Encrypted external storage remains a niche but important part of backup and transport strategies for organisations that want to keep some data offline.

Offline storage

The desktop drive handles authentication and encryption within the device rather than through host systems. Users enter credentials on an onboard keypad, a design intended to keep PINs and encryption keys separate from the computers to which the drive is connected.

Data is encrypted as it is written to the drive and remains protected when stored or transported. The firmware is also locked to prevent malware insertion and other unauthorised changes.

That approach reflects a longstanding divide in the storage market between software-based encryption and dedicated hardware systems. Supporters of hardware encryption argue that keeping security functions inside the device can reduce the risk of exposure from compromised endpoints, including keylogging attacks.

Apricorn is positioning the 32TB product as a way for customers to consolidate larger datasets on a single encrypted device. It may appeal to organisations managing growing archives, operational records, backups or sensitive files subject to compliance rules.

"As data volumes continue to surge, organisations have to give real consideration to how and where they store their most critical information," said Kurt Markley, Managing Director at Apricorn.

The larger capacity is aimed at enterprises seeking secure offline backup options that operate independently of their networks. Apricorn sees this as particularly relevant in sectors with strict controls around data handling and storage policy.

Security design

The Aegis Padlock DT FIPS uses Apricorn's AegisWare firmware. It does not require software installation or administrative privileges, which can matter in environments where users have limited access rights or IT teams want to reduce deployment complexity.

Apricorn has built its business around encrypted external storage products for organisations that need portable or isolated data storage. Its devices use 256-bit AES XTS hardware encryption and are designed for data at rest and secure portability.

The launch also highlights demand for higher-capacity devices in parts of the market that cannot rely entirely on cloud or network-attached infrastructure. In some industries, keeping certain datasets physically separate from core systems remains part of broader resilience planning, especially where ransomware and endpoint attacks are a persistent concern.

"Expanding the Aegis Padlock DT FIPS line to 32TB gives our customers the ability to consolidate large amounts of sensitive data into a highly secure device that could be completely isolated from network-based threats," said Markley.

The drive is intended both for transporting sensitive data and maintaining offline backups. That places it in a category of products used not only for security, but also for operational recovery, long-term retention and controlled file exchange between sites or teams.

While external drives account for a small share of enterprise storage spending compared with cloud services and on-premise arrays, they continue to play a role where physical control, portability and isolation are priorities. Vendors in this segment have sought to differentiate themselves through certified encryption, tamper resistance and designs that minimise dependence on host machines.

The 32TB model broadens the options available across the Aegis Padlock DT FIPS line for customers with different storage requirements. "Organisations must recognise that not all data should live on the network," said Markley. "Offline, encrypted storage plays a critical role in broader data protection and resilience strategies, particularly as threats targeting endpoints and connected systems continue to evolve."