1

I'm looking for a "safe erase" application overwriting free space with random data in its cost-free version. Plus can "safely erase" selected files as well.

Many programs for secure data erasure will not process free space in their trial version.

Can anyone suggest one that will work? Requirements:

  • Free or trial version.
  • Securely erase data including currently space that is currently free (empty).
  • Runs on Windows.
3
  • Did the answer, which aas given 7 years ago, help you? Jan 13, 2021 at 23:48
  • 1
    @MawgsaysreinstateMonica yes, accepted
    – Revious
    Jan 14, 2021 at 10:39
  • 1
    Great! Thanks, I am sure that you had forgotten it, so NP. But, obviously, accepting an answer help s ohters nd repays the help which you received. Le'ts accept, folks :-) Thanks again, Revious Jan 14, 2021 at 16:25

1 Answer 1

10

You've not mentioned what you've tried so far, so I'll suggest two that I've been made aware of in forensics classes. Its useful not note that while these arn't completely foolproof, they do implement the one proper way to clear slack space in windows - using the defragmentation API to overwrite the slack space. If its a file you absolutely do not want found, encrypt it, and/or doublecheck to make sure its deleted.

sdelete is probably the gold standard for such software - its designed by sysinternals (part of microsoft these days) sdelete -c should clean free space, or you can tell it to securely delete files or folders recursively. Its freeware, and pretty reliable. It does run on CLI, so if you're scared of the command line, you may want another option

If you need a GUI alternative, you can use eraser - its free and open source, has a fairly intuitive interface, and lets you know what files weren't deleted in the logs.

It will also let you schedule regular free space wipes, or other tasks, if it isn't a one off thing.

enter image description here

This is the main UI and the task scheduler window

enter image description here

Free space log. I have no clue what the file it can't wipe is, and I can't retrieve it the usual ways, so can't be anything important.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.