How to Permanently Erase Data from Your Hard Drive

When selling or donating an old computer or its hard drive, it is crucial to ensure all data is permanently erased to prevent recovery, especially if sensitive information is involved. Simple deletion and emptying of the recycle bin do not suffice, as deleted files are still potentially recoverable until overwritten.

Methods to Erase Data

1. Full Format the Drive

• Best for: Drives not containing an operating system.
• Process:
  • Open File Explorer, right-click the desired drive, and select 'Format'.
  • Clear the 'Quick Format' option to enable full format.
  • Click 'Start', then 'OK' to erase data permanently.
  • Repeat for each partition if the drive is split.

2. Use Third-Party Software

• Examples: Kill Disk, DBAN, CCleaner, Eraser.
• Software Used for Tutorial: Eraser (open-source, easy to use, supports several wiping methods).
• Process:
  • Download and install Eraser.
  • Create a new task in Eraser's 'Erase Schedule' tab.
  • Set task to Manual, add data, and set target type to drive or partition.
  • Choose eraser method (more passes = more secure but time-consuming).
  • Select the hard disk or drive to erase, and run the task.
  • Format the drive to make it usable again.

3. Reset PC Entirely (Windows 10 & 11)

• Best for: Wiping drives containing an operating system.
• Process:
  • Plug in laptop to power if applicable.
  • Access Windows Settings:
    • For Windows 10: Go to 'Update & Security' > 'Recovery', click 'Get Started' under 'Reset this PC'.
    • For Windows 11: Go to 'System' > 'Recovery', click 'Reset PC'.
  • Choose 'Remove everything'.
  • Select 'Local reinstall' for offline Windows reinstallation.
  • On additional settings, enable 'Clean data' and choose to erase all files from all drives if desired.
  • Click 'Confirm', then 'Next', and finally 'Reset' to begin.
  • The process involves preparing the PC, wiping the drives, and reinstalling Windows.

This tutorial provides you with the necessary steps to securely remove data from your hard drives, ensuring your privacy and security.