What is offline secure storage?

Offline secure storage (OSS) is a data protection method where data is physically disconnected from the internet when not in use. Unlike cloud storage, data stored offline has zero remote attack surface — it cannot be hacked, ransomed or accessed remotely because it is not connected to any network. Firevault provides this through hardware-encrypted vaults that are physically isolated.

How does Firevault protect against ransomware?

Firevault protects against ransomware by physically disconnecting your data from the internet. Ransomware can only encrypt data it can reach over a network. When your data is stored offline in a Firevault, ransomware attacks cannot reach it. Even if your entire network is compromised, your offline vault remains untouched and intact.

How much does Firevault cost?

Firevault Vault starts from £75 per month (inc VAT) for individuals. Business Storage starts from £360 per month (inc VAT). Enterprise Platform pricing is available on request. All plans include hardware encryption, identity verification, and physical disconnection by default.

Who is Firevault designed for?

Firevault is designed for individuals protecting passports, wills and crypto keys; professionals such as solicitors, accountants and consultants protecting client data; SMEs and businesses protecting crown jewel data; and regulated industries including healthcare, financial services and legal sectors requiring offline backup for compliance with GDPR, NIS2, DORA and FCA regulations.

Is Firevault GDPR compliant?

Yes. Firevault is designed to support GDPR compliance by keeping sensitive personal data physically isolated and offline. Physical disconnection ensures data is not exposed to network-based attacks, supports data minimisation principles, and provides an audit trail of access. Firevault is also designed to support NIS2, DORA, FCA and SRA compliance requirements.

What is a physical air gap?

A physical air gap is a security measure where a computer or storage device is completely isolated from the internet and all unsecured networks. Unlike a logical or software air gap, a physical air gap cannot be bridged remotely. Firevault uses a Layer 1 physical air gap — your data is stored on hardware that is physically disconnected from any network when not in active use.

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News10 November 20253 min read

Sona Insurance Partners with Firevault

We’re proud to announce that Sona Insurance Solutions , the Colchester-based independent insurance broker, has become the first broker in the UK to partner…

Mark Fermor

Director & Co-Founder, Firevault

A formal business partnership scene at golden hour with warm corporate lighting

We’re proud to announce that Sona Insurance Solutions, the Colchester-based independent insurance broker, has become the first broker in the UK to partner with Firevault — bringing secured offline data protection directly to businesses across the country.

This partnership marks an important step forward for business resilience, combining Sona’s trusted expertise in risk and insurance with Firevault’s world-first approach to data protection: security through physical disconnection.

Taking data out of harm’s reach

With more than 1,500 clients across the UK and a long-standing reputation for personal service, Sona Insurance Solutions has built its business on protecting what matters most. The team of 20 provides tailored cover across cyber, commercial, and high-value personal insurance, supporting SMEs, mid-market, and corporate clients.

Through this new partnership, Sona’s clients will now be able to access Firevault’s Vault a secured offline digital vault that protects sensitive data by keeping it physically disconnected from the internet.

Available in 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB configurations, each vault is identity-locked, offline when idle, and functions like a digital safety deposit box for business-critical information.

“This partnership represents a natural extension of what we stand for: proactive protection, not just reaction,” said Rob Thacker, CEO of Sona Insurance Solutions.

“Our clients rely on us to help them safeguard what matters most. By bringing Firevault into our offering, we’re giving them a way to take data completely out of harm’s reach — it’s protection before the policy even needs to respond.”

Redefining business resilience

Cyber threats are now a daily concern for UK businesses, from ransomware and data theft to compliance breaches and operational disruption. The collaboration between Sona and Firevault represents a new way forward — one that focuses on prevention rather than recovery.

“Sona shares our belief that the future of resilience isn’t about adding more online tools it’s about reducing exposure altogether,” said Mark Fermor, Co-Founder & Director of Firevault.
“Through this partnership, we’re helping business leaders take back control of their most valuable data and strengthen their ability to recover quickly when it matters most.”

David Bailey, Co-Founder & Director of Firevault, added:
“This collaboration reinforces the principle that prevention is more powerful than recovery. Together with Sona, we’re making ‘offline by default’ a reality for companies that want to protect their crown-jewel data before an incident occurs.”

About Sona Insurance Solutions

Based in Colchester, Sona Insurance Solutions is an independent broker serving more than 1,500 clients across the UK. The firm specialises in tailored insurance and risk management for SMEs, mid-market, and corporate clients, with expertise spanning cyber liability, directors & officers (D&O) cover, and high-value asset protection.

Sona’s approach is built on trust, service, and independence, providing practical advice and proactive protection to help clients manage today’s most complex risks with confidence.
🔗 www.sonainsurance.com

Partner with Firevault

If you’re an insurance provider, broker, or technology partner interested in offering offline protection to your clients, get in touch with our team to explore partnership opportunities.

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