Rocstor ET34 DAS Storage System

The Rocsecure ET34 is the world’s first Thunderbolt 3 real-time hardware encrypted RAID, engineered to deliver uncompromising security without sacrificing performance. It combines enterprise-grade encryption with ultra-fast, turnkey storage in a compact desktop enclosure, making it the ideal solution for professionals who handle sensitive media, confidential archives, and high-value data. Featuring AES 256-bit hardware encryption, FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation, and a NIST-certified cryptographic processor, Rocstor’s ET34 protects data at rest and during transfer with military-grade rigor while maintaining blazing transfer speeds that professional workflows demand. Designed in the USA, this DAS storage system blends sophisticated security with robust reliability, enabling editors, researchers, photographers, and IT managers to work confidently with large files, multi-stream projects, and on-the-go collaborations. Whether you’re backing up expansive libraries, editing 4K footage, or sharing sensitive files across teams, the ET34 is built to keep your data secure, accessible, and organized at scale.

• Real-time hardware encryption – The ET34 runs encryption directly on the device’s cryptographic engine. It uses AES-256-bit encryption with a FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated, NIST-certified processor, ensuring that data remains protected even during high-speed transfers. Because the encryption is hardware-based, your host computer’s CPU stays free for editing, rendering, or other demanding tasks while your files are automatically secured as they move to or from the storage array.
• Thunderbolt 3 performance – With the Thunderbolt 3 interface delivering up to 40Gbps, the ET34 unlocks extraordinary data throughput for large, time-sensitive workloads. This enables smooth 4K/8K workflow playback, rapid offloads from high-capacity media cards, and rapid backups across multi-terabyte libraries. The single-cable design also supports daisy-chaining other Thunderbolt devices, helping you streamline your workstation layout without sacrificing speed.
• Hardware RAID for reliability and speed – The ET34 includes a built-in hardware RAID engine that handles array configuration, parity calculations, and performance tuning independently of the host computer. This provides true data protection and consistent performance, with RAID levels configured to optimize for redundancy, capacity, or speed according to your project needs. With hardware RAID, you gain predictable performance and safer data management even during intense editing sessions or large-scale transfers.
• Cross-platform compatibility – Designed for universal use, the ET34 works with macOS and Windows environments through Thunderbolt 3 connections. It mounts as a fast, high-capacity storage volume on supported systems, enabling seamless file access, editing, and archival workflows. The device is built to integrate into mixed environments, so teams can collaborate without compatibility headaches or workflow disruption.
• Designed in the USA with trusted protection – Rocstor’s engineering focuses on security-forward design, durability, and long-term support. The ET34’s desktop form factor fits neatly into professional studios and IT workrooms, delivering enterprise-grade protection in a compact, user-friendly package. Its rugged construction and intelligent power management are built to endure demanding environments while preserving optimal temperature and reliability for sustained operation.

Technical Details of Rocstor ET34 DAS Storage System

• Encryption AES-256-bit hardware encryption with FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation and a NIST-certified cryptographic processor.
• Interface Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for high-speed data transfer and daisy-chaining capabilities with compatible devices.
• RAID Hardware-accelerated RAID engine with multiple configurations to balance performance, capacity, and data protection.
• Compatibility Cross-platform support for macOS and Windows; plug-and-play operation via Thunderbolt 3 on supported systems.
• Design Desktop DAS enclosure designed in the USA, engineered for security, reliability, and ease of maintenance.

How to install Rocstor ET34

Getting started with the ET34 is straightforward and designed to minimize downtime. Before you begin, ensure you have access to a Thunderbolt 3 port on your computer and a suitable power source for the enclosure. Position the ET34 on a stable desk area that has adequate ventilation to keep temperatures in check during heavy data transfers. If you have multiple Thunderbolt devices on your workstation, plan the daisy-chain order so that the ET34 sits early in the chain for maximal bandwidth and lowest latency.

Step 1 — Connect and power: Connect a Thunderbolt 3 cable from your computer to the ET34’s Thunderbolt 3 port. Attach the external power supply if your model requires it and power on the unit. Give the system a moment to initialize and appear in your operating system’s disk management utility.

Step 2 — Initialize and configure RAID: Use the built-in RAID manager or your preferred disk utility to configure your RAID array. The ET34’s hardware controller handles RAID parity, stripe sizes, and redundancy policies, so you don’t need to rely on software RAID within your host operating system. Select the RAID level that best matches your workflow—whether you prioritize performance for video editing, protection for valuable assets, or a balanced approach for mixed workloads. Confirm your configuration and allow the array to initialize. This process may take several minutes depending on the number of drives and the chosen RAID mode.

Step 3 — Format the volume: After the RAID array is initialized, format the logical volume for your operating system. Choose a file system appropriate to your platform and project requirements (for example, APFS or HFS+ on macOS, NTFS or exFAT on Windows, or an appropriate Linux-compatible option if you are using Linux-based systems). Remember that formatting will erase all data on the drives, so be sure to back up any essential material before proceeding.

Step 4 — Mount and verify: Mount the ET34 volume in your file browser and verify it is writable and readable by performing a quick test copy. Create a small test folder, transfer sample media or project data, and confirm that throughput matches your expectations for the RAID configuration you selected. If anything seems off, refer to the device’s management utility to re-check the RAID configuration or run a diagnostic scan.

Step 5 — Integrate into your workflow: Once mounted, you can start migrating projects, archives, or live media into the ET34. For security-conscious environments, ensure the encryption is enabled by default and verify that your access policies and user permissions align with your organization’s data governance. Periodically review RAID status and SMART health indicators to maintain reliability and prevent unexpected downtime.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What exactly is Rocsecure ET34?

A: The Rocsecure ET34 is a Thunderbolt 3 DAS storage system featuring real-time hardware encryption, designed to deliver fast data transfers and robust data protection for professional workloads. It brings enterprise-grade security to a desktop RAID in a compact, user-friendly package.

Q: What encryption standards does it use?

A: It employs AES-256-bit hardware encryption with FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation and a NIST-certified cryptographic processor, ensuring strong protection of data at rest and during transit across Thunderbolt connections.

Q: Is it compatible with Mac and Windows?

A: Yes. The ET34 is built for cross-platform use, providing plug-and-play operation over Thunderbolt 3 on supported macOS and Windows systems. Formatting choices may vary by OS, so select a file system compatible with your workflow.

Q: Can I configure RAID on the ET34?

A: Absolutely. The ET34 includes a hardware RAID engine that supports multiple configurations to optimize either performance, redundancy, or capacity. The choice of RAID level is managed through the device’s internal RAID controller, independent of the host computer.

Q: How do I install and set up the ET34?

A: Connect the device with a Thunderbolt 3 cable, power it, and use the built-in RAID manager to configure your array. After selecting a RAID level, initialize the array, format the volume for your operating system, and mount the drive. For best results, follow the on-screen prompts and adhere to recommended best practices for backups and data organization.