What is ATA Security Mode?

Answer 1

The most modern ATA- and SATA hard disks (IDE=ATA) support the "ATA Security Mode Feature Set". This include special functions to:

• protect the hdd for illegal access and
• prevent the unauthorized set of a new password (by a Virus or other malware)

These "ATA Security Mode Feature Set" functions were originally developed for Laptops / Notebooks. Since Microsoft has used these functions for the XBOX, the most 3.5" hard disks support them.

The BIOS versions of the most computers has no or only partial support of the "ATA Security Mode Feature Set" functions. This is a security hole that is usable for malware which can set a hard disk password in background to lockout the user after the next power on and prevent the loading of the Operating System and any further hard disk access.

The "Heise Verlag" has published a really interesting article about hard disk security in the c't 8/2005 - article: "AT Your Disservice" It is suggested to check the computer and if necessary to update your BIOS.

Because many mainboard vendors update their BIOS versions only for a short time, I have written a BIOS Extension that

• starts on boot
• supports the "ATA Security Mode Feature Set" and
• freezes the functions to prevent malware from setting a password.

So, the ATASX (ATA Security eXtension) BIOS was introduced.

This BIOS Extension can be integrated in a PC/Notebook in two methods.

Download: