Redkey USB is a reusable, bootable data erasure tool. You start a compatible computer from Redkey, select the whole disk or disks to erase, and follow the on-screen steps.

It is designed for preparing computers and disks for reuse, sale, donation, recycling or disposal. Redkey can erase the operating system disk, so anything you need must be backed up first.

A factory reset, quick format or Windows reinstall may leave old data behind. These processes are mainly for restoring or reinstalling a system, not for sanitizing a whole disk before it changes hands.

Redkey starts independently from the installed operating system and erases the selected whole disk using a supported sanitization method. This gives you a clearer process and result before a computer is sold, donated, recycled or reused.

Redkey Home, Professional and Ultimate are physical USB products with a software entitlement. Before first use, the current Redkey software is downloaded to the USB through the Redkey Updater.

Edition upgrades are digital purchases. They update an eligible Redkey you already own, so no replacement USB is sent.

Yes. Home, Professional and Ultimate can be reused with unlimited use on compatible computers. A standard Redkey handles one computer at a time, but it can erase one or more supported disks connected to that computer.

There is no per-erasure fee. The physical Redkey must remain connected while it is running.

Home, Professional and Ultimate are one-time purchases. They are reusable, with unlimited use, no subscription, no per-erasure fees and lifetime software updates.

Redkey ITAD is not currently available. Its final pricing and commercial terms will be confirmed before ordering opens.

• Home: reusable whole-disk computer erasure with a clear on-screen result.
• Professional: adds detailed PDF reports, custom overwrite routines and extra disk controls.
• Ultimate: adds supported Apple and Android mobile erasure and scripting for repeated jobs.
• ITAD: in development for organisations that process devices in volume. Final features and availability will be confirmed before ordering opens.

If you are unsure, choose the features you need now. Home and Professional can be upgraded later, or contact us before ordering.

Yes. Redkey can be used for personal, business, commercial, professional or service-provider work on equipment you own or lawfully have authority to erase.

Do not make Redkey available for a third party to use independently. You remain responsible for permission, policy, compliance and any service you provide.

Yes. Redkey erases the selected whole disk, which normally includes Windows, Linux or another installed operating system.

The computer will usually not start from that disk afterwards. If you want to reuse it, you will need to install a compatible operating system again.

A successful erasure on a healthy, supported disk is intended to make the targeted data impractical to recover using the level of protection provided by the selected method.

No software can make the same promise for a failed, inaccessible or unsupported disk. Always check the result. For especially sensitive or damaged media, follow your organisation's policy and consider another approved method or physical destruction.

Usually, yes. Data erasure does not automatically mean that a healthy disk must be destroyed. After erasure, test the hardware and install a compatible operating system if the computer will be reused.

Redkey does not provide a Windows licence and does not restore erased files or the computer's original factory recovery system.

Yes, if the computer is compatible and the instructions are followed carefully. Wipe Wizard gives step-by-step guidance, built-in help is available, and the interface is offered in 10 languages.

Advanced Mode is available for experienced users who need more precise control.

Erasing a disk cannot be undone. Before starting, back up anything you need and confirm that you have selected the correct disk. When the process finishes, check the reported result and any warnings shown.

Redkey works with most Intel or AMD x86 or x64 PCs and laptops made since around 2000, plus most Intel-based Macs made from 2006 to 2020.

The computer needs at least 2 GB RAM, USB boot support, a screen, keyboard and mouse or touchpad. Remote Mode needs at least 4 GB RAM. Some computers need a BIOS, UEFI or storage setting changed.

Yes, if the computer hardware is supported. Redkey starts independently from the installed operating system, so it can erase a supported computer that currently runs Windows or Linux.

Yes, if the computer can power on, start from USB and make the disk available to Redkey. Redkey runs independently from Windows or Linux, so you do not need to sign in to the installed operating system.

A dead computer or a disk that cannot be detected cannot be erased by software.

Redkey supports most Intel-based Macs made from 2006 to 2020. Some models need extra startup or security-setting steps.

Apple silicon Macs, meaning M-series Macs, are not supported.

Redkey does not support ARM-based computers. This includes Apple silicon Macs, Windows on ARM or Snapdragon computers, and ARM Chromebooks or tablets.

Some Intel or AMD Surface and Chromebook models may work only if their firmware allows compatible USB booting and exposes the disk correctly. Ask us about the exact model before buying.

Redkey supports many SATA hard disk drives, SATA SSDs, NVMe SSDs and supported USB storage devices.

M.2 describes the physical shape of a device. An M.2 disk may use SATA or NVMe, so the controller and connection still matter. Available sanitization methods depend on the disk and computer.

SSDs and NVMe disks manage data differently from magnetic hard disks. Where supported, Redkey can use suitable sanitization commands provided by the disk.

A USB adapter, enclosure or docking station may allow normal access but block certain sanitization commands. Where practical, connect a SATA or NVMe disk directly to the computer for the widest method support. Contact us with the exact disk, adapter and computer models if you are unsure.

Some RAID systems, specialist servers and proprietary storage controllers are not supported. A disk may also be hidden behind RAID, Intel VMD or another controller setting.

Contact us with the exact computer, controller and disk details before ordering for unusual business or data-centre equipment.

Only if the disk can still be detected and can complete the selected commands. A failed, damaged or inaccessible disk may return an error or leave areas that software cannot reach.

Do not record an error as a successful erasure. Follow your approved policy, which may require another method or physical destruction.

Send us the computer make and model, processor type, disk model and any RAID or storage-controller details you know. For a phone or tablet, send the exact model and operating-system version through our contact page.

If USB access or clearance is the only question, the permanently non-functional Physical Fit Model can be used for a physical check.

Professional and Ultimate create detailed PDF data erasure reports. Home shows the result on screen but does not create the same detailed PDF report.

Choose Professional or Ultimate if you need a saved record for an asset, customer, project or internal process.

Ultimate supports selected Apple and Android phones and tablets. The Ultimate Data Wipe Kit includes a full Ultimate Edition Redkey.

Mobile compatibility depends on the exact model, operating-system version and settings. Check the current guidance or contact us with the model before ordering.

Yes. Eligible Home Redkeys can be upgraded to Professional or Ultimate. Eligible Professional Redkeys can be upgraded to Ultimate.

The upgrade is digital. You keep the same physical Redkey and serial number. After your details are checked, a new activation code is normally sent by email within 24 hours.

Home, Professional and Ultimate handle one computer at a time. That computer can have up to 16 supported disks connected, and more than one selected disk can be erased in the same operation.

Remote Mode handles one networked computer at a time. Ultimate handles one supported mobile device at a time.

Yes. A Professional or Ultimate bulk pack contains separate Redkeys of the named edition. Each Redkey has its own activation code, works independently and can be used at the same time as the others.

Bulk packs are useful when several people or workstations need their own Redkey.

The current kit combines a full Redkey USB Ultimate with a 128 GB Greenkey for backup, a 16 GB Bluekey that can help install a compatible Windows operating system, a protective case and guides.

Greenkey does not erase data. Bluekey does not restore erased files and does not include a Windows licence. Open and check important backup files before erasing the disk.

The Redkey USB Ultimate V3 Legacy Model is new, unused stock from our earlier V3 hardware design. It uses the key-shaped aluminium casing, runs the same current Ultimate software and includes an accessory bundle.

The V3 model has a USB-A connector. Its casing, packaging and accessories differ from the current standard Ultimate model, so check the product images and What's included section before ordering. It is available only while remaining clearance stock lasts.

No. It is permanently non-functional. It is only for checking Redkey's physical size, USB fit, connector clearance or packaging.

It cannot be activated, licensed, upgraded, converted into a working Redkey, used to erase data or used to create reports.

1. Back up everything you need to separate storage.
2. Open important backup files to make sure they work.
3. Record any passwords, licence keys or details needed to reinstall the system.
4. Disconnect any storage you do not want to erase.
5. Confirm that you have permission to erase the selected device.

Use the activation code inside the sealed packaging with the current Redkey Updater on a supported Windows computer connected to the internet.

Allow about 2 GB for the Redkey software download. If activation fails or the code is rejected, stop retrying and contact support.

Connect your Redkey to a supported Windows computer and open the current Redkey Updater. Choose the option to request an activation code, then enter the purchase details registered to that Redkey serial number.

If the details match, a copy of the code will be sent to the registered email address. If your details have changed or you cannot complete the request, contact Redkey Support.

Many genuine older Redkeys can be updated after an activation code has been issued. Connect the Redkey to a supported Windows computer, open the current Redkey Updater and use the option to request a code.

Eligibility and security checks apply. Contact Redkey Support if the Redkey is not detected or the request cannot be completed.

No normal installation is required on the Windows computer. The Updater is a portable Windows application that activates Redkey and installs or updates the software on the Redkey USB itself.

Download the current version from the official Activate and Update page.

Not currently. Redkey activation and software updates require a supported Windows computer with internet access. Use the current Redkey Updater.

Once activated and updated, Redkey starts independently and can be used on compatible computers whose installed operating system is Windows or Linux. It can also be used on supported Intel-based Macs.

1. Connect Redkey to the computer.
2. Switch on or restart the computer.
3. Open the computer's boot menu and choose Redkey or the correct USB device.
4. Follow the on-screen steps.

The key used to open a boot menu varies by manufacturer. If Redkey does not appear, see the Support page for USB boot, BIOS and UEFI help.

Redkey erases the selected disk as a whole. It is not intended for erasing one chosen file or keeping part of that disk.

The operating system is normally erased with the disk. Check the disk model and capacity carefully before confirming.

• Wipe Wizard gives step-by-step guidance for normal erasure work.
• Advanced Mode gives experienced users more precise control over whole-disk erasure.
• AutoNuke can run an automatic erasure on supported disks.
• Remote Mode handles one supported computer on the local network at a time.

Ultimate also includes Mobile Mode and scripting. Use advanced or automated features only when you understand the selected settings.

There is no single time. It depends on the disk type, capacity, condition, connection and selected sanitization method.

A hardware-based method may take a different amount of time from software overwriting. Keep Redkey and the computer powered and connected until the result is shown.

Internet access is required to activate and update Redkey using the Windows Updater. Computer disk erasure still runs locally on the machine.

Wiping a supported Apple phone or tablet may also need an internet connection if that device's software requires activation to complete the wipe. When this applies, Redkey explains it on screen. Where activation is not required, offline erasure remains available.

Remote Mode requires a suitable local network. If you need a strictly offline workflow, contact us before ordering so we can confirm the relevant edition and feature.

Disconnect storage that is not part of the job. Compare the displayed disk model, serial number and capacity with the device you intend to erase. Check every selected disk before you confirm.

Keep backups physically separate from the computer being erased. Erasure cannot be undone.

Stop and check the connection, power, USB port and the computer's BIOS, UEFI, RAID, VMD or storage settings. Do not assume that an unseen disk has been erased.

If power or the Redkey USB connection is interrupted, treat the result as incomplete until the disk is checked and a successful process is completed. Do not remove Redkey while it is running.

Redkey shows the result on screen and clearly indicates success or an error. Do not treat a warning, error or interrupted process as a successful erasure.

Redkey also includes hexadecimal and binary viewers for manual checks. Professional and Ultimate create detailed PDF reports.

A report can record the disk or device, selected sanitization method, date, time and result. Supported editions can add customer, asset, operator or project details.

Professional and Ultimate can save reports to Redkey or another supported USB storage device.

No. A report records the process and result. It can support record-keeping, audits and an organisation's sanitization programme, but it does not by itself guarantee compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, a contract or any other legal duty.

Your organisation remains responsible for its policy, method selection, authorisation, verification, evidence and any extra controls required.

Redkey erases the selected whole disk using a method supported by that disk and computer. This may use a supported command built into the disk or overwrite the disk using software.

Clear and Purge are sanitization categories used in recognised guidance such as NIST SP 800-88 and IEEE 2883. The appropriate method depends on the disk, required assurance, organisational policy and result shown.

A method name alone does not prove compliance or confirm that an erasure succeeded.

Not currently. Redkey does not hold independent third-party approval for its product, and it is working toward independent assessment. We cannot promise the outcome or completion date.

Redkey provides standards-aligned wiping that follows NIST SP 800-88 methods. Redkey Professional and Ultimate create a documented erasure report as a PDF, and Redkey Home shows the result on screen only. Check our Documented Data Erasure page before relying on Redkey for procurement, contractual or policy requirements.

Not as a general requirement. UK and EU data protection law do not require organisations to use an independently assessed product. They require appropriate security, accountable processes and the ability to demonstrate compliance.

Independent assessment is one form of assurance. A contract, tender, government security requirement, sector rule or internal policy may still require a particular independently assessed product or service. Your organisation remains responsible for selecting an appropriate sanitization method, verifying the result and keeping the records required for its risks and obligations.

If independent assessment is a purchasing requirement, check our Documented Data Erasure page or contact us before ordering.

No. Erasure runs locally, and Redkey does not upload the contents of the selected disk to us.

Activation and updates may exchange product, licence, version and technical information needed to provide the service. Reports remain in the storage you choose unless you decide to send one to support. See the Privacy Policy for details.

Redkey starts from USB as a separate live environment and does not install itself on the target disk. It deliberately changes the selected disk by erasing it.

Reports are saved only to the location selected by the user, depending on the edition and settings used.

Sanitization targets data, not the disk's hardware identity or health information. Details such as the model, serial number, power-on hours and wear information can remain in the disk firmware.

Redkey can identify and, where supported, clear certain hidden disk areas. Coverage depends on the disk, controller and selected method.

Mobile erasure requires Redkey Ultimate. Connect the supported phone or tablet by a suitable data cable to the computer running Redkey.

The mobile device does not connect directly to the Redkey USB. On-device approval, USB debugging or other preparation may be needed.

Redkey Ultimate supports many Apple phones and tablets running iOS or iPadOS 9 or later. Some older devices need extra manual steps.

Compatibility depends on the exact model, software version and settings. Some newer Apple software versions also need an internet connection during the wipe so Redkey can complete activation. If you need to confirm a particular device before ordering, contact us with the exact model and software version.

Not always. Some Apple software versions now require the device to be activated after it is reset before Redkey can finish the wipe. When that is needed, Redkey asks for an internet connection and explains why. Where activation is not required, the wipe can still run offline.

Redkey does not bypass iCloud Activation Lock or other ownership checks. Remove Apple accounts where instructed before erasure.

Computer disk erasure still runs locally. Internet is separately required to activate or update Redkey itself using the Windows Updater.

Redkey Ultimate supports selected Android phones and tablets. Support depends on the model, Android version, encryption and settings.

USB debugging and approval on the device may be required. Older devices can have different encryption and reset behaviour, so check current guidance or contact us with the exact model before ordering.

No. Redkey erases supported user data, but it does not bypass ownership checks or anti-theft locks.

Remove Apple, Google and manufacturer accounts where instructed before erasure. A phone may remain locked to its previous owner afterwards if this is not done.

After a successful process on a supported device, the operating system should remain available or be reset or reinstalled as required by that device. The device can then go through its normal setup process.

Back up required data, remove account locks where instructed, and follow the model-specific preparation steps first.

Yes. Supported Home, Professional and Ultimate Redkeys include lifetime software updates. Use the current Windows Updater and an internet connection to install them.

Redkey ships from the United Kingdom to supported countries. Available delivery methods and charges are shown at checkout.

International orders may be subject to local tax, duty or handling charges unless checkout states that they have already been collected. See the Shipping Policy for current details.

Redkey USB devices include a 2-year standard warranty for covered manufacturing faults. Limited extended support may be available for up to 10 years from the original purchase date, subject to the policy, product condition, parts and Redkey's discretion.

This is not a 10-year warranty. Read the current Warranty, Returns and Refunds Policy for the full terms.

The 90-day goodwill guarantee applies to eligible products that are unopened, unused and unactivated, with the original packaging, accessories, documents and proof of purchase. Redkey security seals must remain intact.

Different rules apply to faults, statutory rights and digital products. Contact us before returning anything and read the full Warranty, Returns and Refunds Policy.

Eligible genuine Redkeys can be transferred through the published ownership and warranty-transfer process. The original registered owner starts the request, and security and purchase checks apply.

Once approved, the remaining warranty and applicable support rights can transfer to the new owner. A transfer does not restart or extend them. See the Warranty Transfer page.

Only with our prior written approval. We may approve resellers and procurement companies that buy directly from us for supply to a named end customer.

Contact us before ordering and tell us whether the Redkey should be registered to your organisation or the end customer. Redkey products must not be advertised through marketplaces or other sales channels without approval.

A later ownership transfer does not restart or extend the original warranty or support period.

Redkey ITAD is in development for organisations that process devices in volume. It is not currently available to buy.

The current development target includes Ultimate features, higher-volume processing, a PDF report for each processed device and saving reports to customer-controlled storage. Final features, capacity, pricing and availability may change and will be confirmed before ordering opens.

Future Redkey software, including V6, is in development. Release content and timing can change. Purchase Redkey for the features available now, not for an unconfirmed future feature.

Confirmed software releases and development notes are published on the Developments page.

Use the Redkey Support page or contact form. Before ordering, include the exact computer, disk, controller or mobile-device model. For a technical problem, include the Redkey serial number, what you selected, the result shown and any error message.

Support is provided by email and the support form. Do not send a device back until a return has been approved and an RMA number has been issued.