How to Really Delete Your Computer Files (Not Just Recycle Them)

When you hear "Are you sure you want to permanently delete this file?" and then click "Yes," you probably feel confident your files are gone forever. But they're not. Windows lied to your face. Windows doesn't "permanently delete" anything--it just pulls a blanket over them and pretends they don't exist. With the right (even freeware) program, all of your files can be recovered by anyone who's remotely curious. While you're likely stuck with Windows and all of it's lies, you can take steps to ensure your files never see the light of a fire again.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer running Windows

1. Download the freeware program "Eraser" (see the resources below), and install it. Leave everything checked.

2. Right-click the file or folder you want to delete. Select "Erase," and then click "Options."

3. Select the wipe method you want to use. The most secure is Gutmann, which overwrites the file 35 times in a certain pattern to make the data irrecoverable. The next most secure is Schneiner's followed by DoD-7, DoD-3, random data, and first and last 2KB.

4. Click "OK," and "Yes" to delete the file.

5. To erase all the unused space on your hard drive, double-click "Computer," right-click the drive with unused space you want to erase, and select "Erase Unused Space." Click "Options," and select the wipe method. Click "OK," and then click "Yes."

6. To erase the files in your Recycle Bin, right-click it, and select "Erase Recycle Bin," followed by whatever method you want to use. Click "Yes."

Tips & Warnings

• Overwriting with random data or the first and last 2KB probably isn't a good idea, as it offers no real security. Use at least the DoD-3 method, and for the most sensitive data, go with Gutmann.
• For more computer tips, check the Resources section.
• Erasing data in this way means you really will never be able to recover it. Be certain you want to delete your data.

Resources

• Eraser
• How to Speed Up Your Computer Right Now
• How to Instantly Lock Down Your Computer
• How to Protect Your Computer From Viruses, Spyware, and Malware for Free and Better Than if You Paid
• How to Make a Computer Program Faster
• How to Quickly Remove a Flash Drive or SD Card From a Computer

[FrazzledNanny]

on 2/24/2009 Thanks for the great article. I think this might be why my computer runs slow. Maybe I'm not getting my files completely deleted. 5*

[lydiabily]

on 11/15/2008 This is very good information. I knew how to do it in unix, but not on a PC.

[PABechko]

on 11/14/2008 Very helpful info

[coachmac4]

on 11/14/2008 Thanks for this great advice on how to really delete files!

[kaseysviewblog]

on 11/14/2008 Very good to know!