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    software to clean HD

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Marco91, Apr 14, 2009.

  1. Marco91

    Marco91 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Is there any well know software the completely erases the hard drive? Help Would be great! Thanks!
     
    Marco91, Apr 14, 2009
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  2. gengerald

    gengerald Technofile Extraordinaire

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    DBAN.org is the ticket. A simple 3 pass should do. There is extensive instructions up as well. You will want the current version for pre-dual core laptops, beta for dual core.
     
    gengerald, Apr 14, 2009
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  3. Nihal

    Nihal Notebook Enthusiast

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    What about just formatting it? Or do you want to PROPERLY delete all the data?!
     
    Nihal, Apr 14, 2009
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  4. gengerald

    gengerald Technofile Extraordinaire

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    A single format does not ensure a complete erase. Even a 3 pass overwrite is not complete. The only way to completely erase information is to destroy the hard drive. If you are reselling the drive, then keep or destroy. If you are reinstalling your operating system or sending it in for a quick rma, then a couple passes should do fine, in my opinion.
     
    gengerald, Apr 14, 2009
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  5. Marco91

    Marco91 Notebook Enthusiast

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    No. I'm just reinstalling the OS.
     
    Marco91, Apr 14, 2009
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  6. gengerald

    gengerald Technofile Extraordinaire

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    Then formatting, repartitioning (+format), or a DBAN will work. Windows will prompt you for a clean install.
     
    gengerald, Apr 14, 2009
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  7. Convoluted

    Convoluted Notebook Evangelist

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    If you want to securely format your drive (if for example, you want to sell your laptop or the drive) take a look at "Eraser". Free to use. haven't tried myself, but other recommend it.
     
    Convoluted, Apr 14, 2009
    #7