How to erase hard drive/SSD – Guide
You’re stuck with an old PC and don’t know how to securely erase your data? Even after emptying the trash, there’s still hidden information. Physical destruction is one option, but there are more efficient ways to make sure your Windows PC is as clean as when it was new.
How can I permanently delete my data from the hard drive?
Destroying a hard drive is the quickest way to make data unrecoverable. Software and hardware solutions are also available, but for those who want a more direct approach, a hammer can do the job – just be careful not to injure yourself in the process.
A free software method can be an effective way to recover data from a defective drive, even though it takes longer than other methods and the drive cannot be reused afterwards.
Free hard drive cleaning software
Visit dban.org to download the free, open source data cleaning software. The easy-to-follow instructions will make the process a breeze.
Beware: if you don’t clean the right drive, your data will be lost forever.
Hard Disk Erasers
Hardware solutions can be pricey, but they offer an effective way to erase large numbers of drives without a computer.
For those who want to be certain their work is secure, the hammer and nail method provides tangible assurance. However, it’s important to remember to wear protective gear when using this technique.
It is not advisable to use a hammer to destroy the platters inside; an angle grinder is the preferred tool for this task.
How to securely wipe all data on an SSD
SSDs require a more complex approach to data erasure than traditional hard drives, as the way information is stored on them differs.
To ensure the safest installation of a solid-state drive, users should visit the manufacturer’s website and download a utility from the downloads and utilities section.
All data will be replaced with zeros, a process that can take a considerable amount of time.
Destroy your old electronics with a hammer or angle grinder in a safe, appropriate location while wearing safety gear.
To ensure data is unrecoverable, a hammer can be used to physically destroy an SSD, or a nail can be driven into its memory chips.
Final note
Share this guide to erase hard drives and SSDs with your friends. If you have any questions, reach out to us.
