Forum Discussion
LucasTurner
May 09, 2025Iron Contributor
How to delete files off a flash drive safely from computer?
I have some important files on a USB flash drive, including data sheets and photos. Before giving away, I want to make sure the files won't be seen by others. Unfortunately, I can recover the deleted...
CalebStone
May 09, 2025Silver Contributor
How to delete files off a flash drive? You can follow these simple steps:
Using Your Operating System for Windows:
- Insert your flash drive into the USB port.
- Open File Explorer (press Windows + E).
- Locate your flash drive under "This PC" or "My Computer."
- Select the files or folders you want to delete:
- To delete specific files, click on them.
- To delete all files, open the drive and select all (Ctrl + A).
- Press Delete on your keyboard, or right-click and choose Delete.
- Empty the Recycle Bin to permanently remove the files:
- Right-click the Recycle Bin icon.
- Select Empty Recycle Bin.
Another way to delete files off a flash drive:
- Insert the flash drive.
- Open File Explorer.
- Right-click the flash drive and select Format.
- Choose the desired file system (e.g., NTFS or FAT32).
- Check Quick Format for faster operation.
- Click Start and confirm.