How to Permanently Delete Files

Deleting files via the Recycle Bin doesn't really permanently delete your data. The hard drive used to store your data includes a table with information on all the files it contains. When you delete a file in Windows, the area in the table is marked as free, but the file is still there until another one takes the same space. Whether you're deleting specific files, or preparing a computer for resale, deleting via the operating system or via formatting is not enough. Fortunately several utilities are available to get the job done.

Instructions

1. Download and install KillDisk. The free version of this program securely overwrites data in any drive attached to your computer. It supports any media the system is capable of reading.

2. Download Darik's Boot and Nuke. DBAN is an ISO image you can use to create a CD or DVD. Start your computer with the disc and the program can erase all hard drives attached to the system, including C: drive.

3. Download and install Hard Drive Eraser. This freeware program securely overwrites entire drivers. Like KillDisk, it can't erase the C: drive of the current operating system. But it can erase any other drive attached to the system so the data in unrecoverable.

Resources

• Hard Drive Eraser
• Active@ KillDisk
• Darik's Boot and Nuke