How to Erase Data from Your Old Hard Drives - Eraser
How to Erase Data from Your Old Hard Drives - Eraser
Introduction
Hello everyone, this is AlexIn Tech! Today, we’re going to talk about data security, a subject that particularly interests me as a sysadmin. More specifically, I’ll introduce you to Eraser, a free and open-source tool that I regularly use to permanently delete data from my old hard drives (HDD).
What is Eraser?
Eraser is an advanced data deletion tool for Windows that allows you to securely erase sensitive data from your hard drive by overwriting it multiple times with carefully selected patterns. Unlike standard file deletion, which merely marks disk space as “free,” Eraser truly eliminates the risk of data recovery.
Why Use Eraser?
- Enhanced Security: Standard deletion methods are not enough to ensure that your data is unrecoverable. Eraser solves this issue.
- Free and Open Source: No need to pay for increased security. Eraser is free, and its code is open to the public.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface makes secure data deletion accessible even for non-tech users.
How I Use It
Step 1: Installation
Download Eraser from their official website https://eraser.heidi.ie/ and follow the standard installation process.
Step 2: Configuration
Launch Eraser, create a “task,” and select the drives or specific files you want to delete. You can also schedule the task for regular deletion.
Step 3: Execution
After confirming that you want to proceed, click “Start.” Eraser will then begin the secure deletion process, which can take time depending on the size of the drive and the security level* you have chosen.
Eraser offers a “military-grade” security level.
My Experience
As an IT professional, data security is my top priority. I have used Eraser multiple times, especially when decommissioning or repurposing old HDDs for work and personal projects. The software is reliable, efficient, and provides a level of security that few competing products can match.
Conclusion
Eraser is an invaluable tool for anyone serious about data security. Its user interface is simple, yet under the hood, it’s a powerhouse that renders your data indecipherable. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to eliminate the risk of data leaks.
That’s all for today. If data security interests you as much as it does me, be sure to try Eraser and let me know what you think!
