iStorage Company Profile

Background

iStorage is a global leader in hardware-encrypted data storage and cloud encryption solutions, specializing in providing secure, portable data storage devices and cloud services. Founded in 2009 by John Michael, a serial entrepreneur with over 38 years of experience in the IT industry, the company is headquartered in London, England. iStorage's mission is to safeguard sensitive data to the highest standards through innovative technology, ensuring compliance with stringent regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, NRC, GLB, and DHS Initiatives. The company's vision is to make encryption an essential commodity required by all, offering products that are ultra-secure, easy to use, and affordable. iStorage's primary focus is on developing hardware-encrypted portable data storage devices, including USB flash drives, hard disk drives (HDDs), and solid-state drives (SSDs), with capacities up to 30TB. These products are designed and developed in the UK and are used by government agencies, military organizations, multinational corporations, and consumers in over 50 countries.

Key Strategic Focus

iStorage's strategic focus centers on providing secure data storage solutions that meet the highest standards of encryption and compliance. The company's core objectives include:

Product Innovation: Developing cutting-edge, hardware-encrypted storage devices and cloud solutions that address the evolving needs of data security.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all products comply with global data protection regulations, including GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, NRC, GLB, and DHS Initiatives.

Market Expansion: Broadening the company's global reach by serving diverse sectors such as government, military, healthcare, energy, and finance.

Customer-Centric Approach: Delivering user-friendly products that provide robust data protection without compromising on ease of use.

iStorage specializes in hardware-encrypted portable data storage devices, including USB flash drives, HDDs, and SSDs, with capacities up to 30TB. The company utilizes proprietary technologies such as Common Criteria EAL5+ certified secure microprocessors and FIPS 140-2 Level 2/3 encryption to ensure the highest levels of data security. Primary markets targeted include government agencies, military organizations, multinational corporations, and individual consumers across more than 50 countries.

Financials and Funding

iStorage is a privately held company and does not publicly disclose detailed financial information. In 2016, iStorage was acquired by National Storage Affiliates Trust (NSA), a self-administered, self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT) dedicated to the ownership, operation, and acquisition of high-quality regional self-storage facilities located within high-growth markets. This acquisition has enabled iStorage to expand its operations and enhance its product offerings.

Pipeline Development

iStorage continues to innovate in the field of secure data storage. In September 2025, the company launched the world's first 30TB PIN-authenticated, hardware-encrypted desktop drive, the diskAshur DT3 and DT2. These high-capacity drives are among the first encrypted HDDs pending certification under the new FIPS 140-3 Level 3 standard, the latest U.S. government benchmark for cryptographic security. This development underscores iStorage's commitment to providing robust, portable, and user-friendly data protection solutions.

Technological Platform and Innovation

iStorage's technological platform is distinguished by several proprietary technologies and scientific methodologies:

Proprietary Technologies: The company employs Common Criteria EAL5+ certified secure microprocessors in its devices, ensuring high levels of data security. Additionally, iStorage's products feature FIPS 140-2 Level 2/3 encryption, providing robust protection against unauthorized access.

Scientific Methods: iStorage integrates advanced cryptographic algorithms and secure microprocessor technologies to develop hardware-encrypted storage solutions. The company's products are designed to meet stringent security standards, including FIPS 140-2 Level 2/3 and Common Criteria EAL5+ certifications.

Leadership Team

iStorage's leadership team comprises experienced professionals dedicated to driving the company's mission and strategic objectives:

John Michael: Founder and CEO. With over 38 years in the IT industry, John established iStorage in 2009, focusing on providing secure data storage solutions.

Konstantin Nikolaev: Chief Operating Officer. Konstantin oversees the company's operations, ensuring efficient management and execution of iStorage's strategic initiatives.

Quan Xu: Chief Technology Officer. Quan leads the technological development and innovation efforts at iStorage, driving the advancement of secure data storage technologies.

Ali Malik: Co-Founder. Ali has been instrumental in the company's growth and development, contributing to its strategic direction and success.

Janice Disbrow: Vice President of Operations. Janice manages the day-to-day operations of iStorage, ensuring seamless execution of the company's business activities.

Kevin Cannon: Director of Operations. Kevin oversees operational strategies and processes, contributing to the company's efficiency and effectiveness.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no significant recent changes or appointments within iStorage's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The secure data storage market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing concerns over data breaches, regulatory compliance requirements, and the need for robust data protection solutions. Organizations across various sectors, including government, healthcare, finance, and energy, are investing in secure data storage solutions to safeguard sensitive information. The market is characterized by rapid technological advancements, with companies continually developing innovative products to meet evolving security challenges.

Competitor Analysis

iStorage operates in a competitive landscape with several key players:

Kanguru Solutions: Acquired by iStorage in September 2024, Kanguru is a U.S.-based leader in high-security data storage drives, duplication systems, and remote management software. The acquisition has expanded iStorage's product portfolio and technological capabilities.

Other Competitors: The market also includes other companies specializing in secure data storage solutions, such as Apricorn and Kingston Technology. These competitors offer similar products and services, contributing to a dynamic and competitive market environment.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

iStorage has engaged in strategic collaborations to enhance its market position and innovation capacity:

Acquisition of Kanguru Solutions: In September 2024, iStorage acquired Kanguru Solutions, a U.S.-based leader in high-security data storage drives, duplication systems, and remote management software. This acquisition broadened iStorage's portfolio of secure, user-friendly products and expanded its global reach.

Joining CAST: In November 2024, iStorage Holdings joined CAST, a group founded by Systematic Growth, a Swedish investment firm focused on building niche industry leaders in data protection, storage, servers, and secure communications. This partnership aims to deliver a comprehensive range of state-of-the-art information security products and services on a global scale.

Operational Insights

iStorage's strategic considerations include:

Market Position: iStorage holds a strong position in the secure data storage market, offering a comprehensive range of hardware-encrypted storage devices and cloud solutions.

Competitive Advantages: The company's proprietary technologies, such as Common Criteria EAL5+ certified secure microprocessors and FIPS 140-2 Level 2/3 encryption, provide a competitive edge in delivering high-security data storage solutions.

Differentiators: iStorage's focus on user-friendly products, compliance with global data protection regulations, and continuous innovation distinguish it in the market.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

iStorage's strategic roadmap includes:

Product Innovation: Continuing to develop cutting-edge, hardware-encrypted storage devices and cloud solutions to meet evolving data security needs.

Market Expansion: Leveraging recent acquisitions and partnerships to expand its global footprint and serve a broader customer base.

Technological Advancements: Investing in research and development to enhance product offerings and maintain a leadership position in the secure data storage market.