What BIOS/UEFI settings are required before installing Cigent PBA?

Before installing Cigent PBA, verify a few critical BIOS/UEFI settings. Incorrect configuration is the most common cause of installation failures or missing drive detection.

Required settings ( if present )

1. SATA/NVMe Operation = AHCI (Typically found on Dell systems)

Set the storage controller mode to AHCI.

• RAID mode can prevent the PBA software from recognizing the self-encrypting drive (SED).
• This setting is typically found under the Storage section of the BIOS.
• AHCI mode is required for proper SED discovery.

2. Block SID Authentication = OFF (Typically found on Lenovo systems)

Disable Block SID Authentication.

• TCG storage devices may block SID authentication by default.
• This protection must be turned OFF so PBA can provision the drive during installation.
• Some BIOS implementations may automatically revert this setting, so proceed with PBA installation immediately after changing it.

Recommended setting

3. Secure Boot = ON ( Found on all systems )

Enable Secure Boot where possible.

• Not strictly required for PBA installation.
• Required if you plan to use TPM automatic authentication.
• Considered a platform security best practice.

If a setting is not present

BIOS implementations vary by vendor. If a specific setting is not available on your platform, it can generally be ignored.

Symptoms of incorrect BIOS configuration

You may have a BIOS configuration issue if:

• The Cigent Secure SSD is not detected during installation
• PBA installation fails or features are unavailable
• TPM automatic authentication does not function
• Drives appear unsupported

Best-practice checklist

Before installing PBA:

✔ AHCI mode enabled

✔ Block SID Authentication disabled

✔ Secure Boot enabled (recommended)

✔ BIOS changes saved and system rebooted