Nec has unveiled a new series of laptops that include built-in hardware security in order to prevent illegal access on the hard disk drive.

These hardware features are included in the Versa M370, P570 and S970 models, and are comprised of an advanced, hardware-based security chip - the TPM (Trusted Platform Module), an encrypting disk drive and client management software. Organizations and agencies are now able to rapidly deploy "sealed" notebooks to prevent illegal access to corporate documents an files, even though the laptop gets lost or stolen.

"With so many high-profile data breaches making headlines, securing sensitive information at the source--the laptop itself--is fast becoming a top priority for most organisations", said Olivier Chevance, Client Products Marketing Manager, NEC Computers. "That's why NEC Computers is providing its customers with the most advanced security and management available today within its Versa line of laptops."

User data are stored on a Seagate Technology Momentus FDE.2 (Full Disc Encryption) hard drive with DriveTrust technology, which is controlled through Wave's EMBASSY software. DriveTrust is a security platform that fully makes use of automated hardware-based data protection methods that allow users to add software applications for enhanced security, or even authentication hardware, such as biometrics and smart cards. The Momentus 5400 FDE.2 hard-disk is a 2.5 inch form factor drive to feature government-grade AES encryption.

"Theft of intellectual property, customer information and other precious content stored on laptops can cost organizations dearly in legal remedies, customer retention and reputation management", said Marc Jourlait, vice president of global marketing at Seagate. "Seagate's Momentus 5400 FDE.2 hard drive with the Wave Systems management software enables NEC to deliver notebooks with the strongest, easiest to deploy security available so NEC customers can steer clear of these costly setbacks."