---
updatedAt: 2026-07-29T15:34:12.000Z
agentTools:
  projectIndex: https://docs.axonius.com/llms.txt
---

# Device Data Wipe Required Before Return

# <span style="color: red;">**IMPORTANT: Device Data Wipe Required Before Return**</span>

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### Action Required Prior to Returning Axonius Hardware

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**Important Notice: This procedure refers specifically to CPA (Cyber-Physical Assets).**

Dear Customer,

Before returning any Axonius hardware appliance, you are **required** to perform a full data wipe of the device. This applies in all cases — including end-of-contract returns, hardware replacements, support, and decommissions.

Wiping the device ensures that your organization's data is fully erased before the equipment leaves your custody. Failure to wipe the device before return places full liability and responsibility for any remaining data on you.

Please follow the appropriate procedure below based on your device type.

<Callout icon="⚠️" theme="error">
  ### **WARNING:**

  The wipe process is irreversible. Once initiated, all data on the device will be **permanently** erased and the device will be unusable until re-provisioned by Axonius. Ensure the device is fully decommissioned before proceeding.
</Callout>

## **Dell Device Wipe (via iDRAC)**

**Step 1 — Navigate to Storage**

Log in to the iDRAC interface and navigate to the **Storage** section.

![iDRAC Storage Section](https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Axonius/ax-docs-pub/refs/heads/main/img/deployment/iDRACStorageSection.png)

**Step 2 — Select Virtual Disks**

Within Storage, choose **Virtual Disks**.

![iDRAC Virtual Disks](https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Axonius/ax-docs-pub/refs/heads/main/img/deployment/iDRACVirtualDisks.png)

**Step 3 — Initialize the data disk**

On the data disk, open the **Action** button and select **Initialize: Full**. Confirm the operation when prompted. **This action cannot be undone.**

![iDRAC Initialize: Full](https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Axonius/ax-docs-pub/refs/heads/main/img/deployment/iDRACInitializeFull.png)

## **SFF Appliance Wipe (via Axonius UI)**

**Prerequisites:** Access to the Axonius UI on the SFF appliance.

**Step 1 — Open the Erase Device Storage dialog**

Triple-click the version panel at the bottom of the screen (displays *Collector Version / Management Version*). This opens the **Erase Device Storage** dialog.

![SFF Appliance Wipe Version Panel](https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Axonius/ax-docs-pub/refs/heads/main/img/deployment/SFFApplianceWipeVersionPanel.png)

**Step 2 — Confirm by typing ERASE**

In the confirmation dialog, type **ERASE** (all caps) in the text field. The **Erase Device** button will turn red and become active.

<Image src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Axonius/ax-docs-pub/refs/heads/main/img/deployment/SFFApplianceConfirmDialog-1.png" width="500px" />

**Step 3 — Initiate the wipe**

Click the red **Erase Device** button. The wipe will begin immediately. **This action cannot be undone.**

<Image src="https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Axonius/ax-docs-pub/refs/heads/main/img/deployment/SFFApplianceConfirmDialog-2.png" width="500px" />

## **After the Wipe**

Once the wipe is complete, please coordinate with your Axonius account team to arrange the return shipment. Do not return the device until the wipe has been successfully completed.

If you encounter any issues during the wipe process, contact Axonius Support before proceeding.

**Questions?** Contact your Axonius Customer Success Representative or reach Axonius Support at **<support@axonius.com>**.

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