Best method(s) to wipe the data from a HDD

[films&games]

Hi,

I am just thinking about what is the best method(s) to use to wipe the data from a mechanical HDD (SATA), I have looked at the option(s) in Windows 10 – i.e. “Reset this PC”. Would this be good enough to totally wipe the data from the drive?

I have also looked at 3 different programs – which are free.

DBAN
Disk Genius
Secure Erase

I would prefer a method that means that the data is deleted and then the sectors are overwritten a few times.

Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated, please.

Thank you.

 

[Scott]

A proper deep format would likely handle that. Would take someone going to an AWFUL lot of hassle to pull anything off of such a drive. FBI/MI6 type resource with the platter dismantled

You just need to format the drive in windows and deselect any "quick format" options. This will remove all the data and check for bad sectors. It takes a LONG time so you'll need to be patient.

If you want to get past the FBI/MI6 you could follow the format with a random write across the entire storage space..... this is taking it to another level though.

 

[Oussebon]

Just boot DBAN from a USB stick and have it wipe the HDD. Low effort and can just be left running when you go to bed - and unless you have a very slow drive it'll be done well before the morning.

3 pass DOD method should be more than ample! Even a single pass will make the data unrecoverable to most people, as above...

Resetting the PC via Windows will not securely wipe the drive at all.

 

[BlessedSquirrel]

In the old days I would have recommended CCleaner as it has a very handy data erase tool, but it’s been compromised so many times I’m just not sure it’s safe anymore.

I would second DBAN

 

[ubuysa]

Just boot DBAN from a USB stick and have it wipe the HDD. Low effort and can just be left running when you go to bed - and unless you have a very slow drive it'll be done well before the morning.

This is far and away your best option.