Applies to: All editions
Method summary
The NIST SP 800-88 – Clear profile performs a single all-zero overwrite of the device’s addressable logical range. It uses controlled flushes and distributed representative verification.
The profile is intended to support a Clear outcome for an eligible functioning HDD when the recorded preparation, coverage, write, flush, media classification, and verification requirements are all satisfied.
Pass sequence
| Pass | Pattern |
| 1 | 0x00 across the addressable logical range |
Verification
After the write, DriveErase checks representative sectors distributed across the device rather than reading only one contiguous location. Small devices can receive complete verification where the addressable size falls within the verification scope.
Verification confirms that the sampled logical sectors contain the expected final zero pattern. It does not inspect inaccessible hidden or controller-managed physical areas.
Certified and non-certified completion
A completed write is not automatically a certified Clear result. DriveErase withholds certification when required evidence is missing or adverse, including conditions such as:
- The device is not confirmed as an HDD for this overwrite classification;
- The complete addressable range was not prepared or covered;
- A write or flush failed;
- Failed media ranges were recorded;
- Required verification did not pass;
- The operation was interrupted;
- The accessible capacity changed unexpectedly.
In those cases, the result can state Completed – Not Certified, Incomplete, or Error, depending on the recorded condition.
Use on flash storage
The profile can write the logical range of flash-based devices, but that result should not be represented as full physical-media Clear or Purge assurance. Controller-managed spare, remapped, retired, or over-provisioned storage can remain outside host access.
Recommended use
Select this profile for a functioning magnetic HDD when organizational policy accepts a verified single-pass logical overwrite and the final report confirms that the required Clear criteria were satisfied.