Technical data
11
Security Terms and Definitions
4Security Terms and 
Definitions
Term Definition
Clearing As defined in Section 8-301a of DoD 5220.22-M, “National Industrial Security 
Program Operating Manual (NISPOM)”, clearing is the process of eradicating the 
data on media before reusing the media so that the data can no longer be retrieved 
using the standard interfaces on the instrument. Clearing is typically used when the 
instrument is to remain in an environment with an acceptable level of protection.
Instrument 
Declassification
A term that refers to procedures that must be undertaken before an instrument can 
be removed from a secure environment, such as is the case when the instrument is 
returned for calibration. Declassification procedures include memory sanitization or 
memory removal, or both. Agilent declassification procedures are designed to meet 
the requirements specified in DoD 5220.22-M, “National Industrial Security Program 
Operating Manual (NISPOM)”, Chapter 8.
Sanitization As defined in Section 8-301b of DoD 5220.22-M, “National Industrial Security 
Program Operating Manual (NISPOM)”, sanitization is the process of removing or 
eradicating stored data so that the data cannot be recovered using any known 
technology. Instrument sanitization is typically required when an instrument is moved 
from a secure to a non-secure environment, such as when it is returned to the factory 
for calibration.
Agilent memory sanitization procedures are designed for customers who need to 
meet the requirements specified by the US Defense Security Service (DSS). These 
requirements are specified in the “Clearing and Sanitization Matrix” in Appendix O of 
the ODAA Process Guide for C&A of Classified Systems under NISPOM.
Secure Erase Secure Erase is a term that is used to refer to either the clearing or sanitization 
features of Agilent instruments.










