Forum Discussion
How to erase files permanently from Windows computer?
Alright, so you're thinking about using a dedicated tool like Eraser to permanently delete files and make sure they’re totally unrecoverable. That’s a smart move, especially if you want to get rid of sensitive stuff securely. But, from my own experience and just general tech wisdom, there are a few downsides or things to watch out for when you start erasing files permanently on Windows.
Disadvantages of Using File Shredders for Permanent Deletion
1. When you choose a multi-pass shred method (like DoD 5220.22-M), it’s thorough but can take quite a while, especially if you’ve got gigabytes of data. I’ve had situations where shredding huge folders took hours—so it’s not something you want to do on a whim if you’re in a hurry.
2. Once you hit “erase,” there’s no going back. If you accidentally shred files you still need, you’re out of luck unless you have a backup. It’s a bit like burning a document—once it’s gone, it’s gone. I’ve learned the hard way to double-check what I’m deleting, especially with powerful tools.
3. Constantly overwriting data can, over time, cause wear on SSDs. Not a big deal for occasional use, but if you’re shredding a lot of files regularly, it might impact drive longevity a tiny bit.
4. Do you think you can erase files permanently on Windows computer? If you use a weak method (like just one overwrite), some recovery software might still recover parts of the data. That’s why choosing a multi-pass method is better, but it also means longer shredding times.
My 2 cents from experience:
- Using shredders like Eraseer is great for erasing files you don’t want anyone to recover. But I’ve learned to use it judiciously because it can be slow and sometimes overkill.
- For SSDs, I prefer to use manufacturer-provided secure erase tools or hardware-based wipes, because software overwrites aren’t always effective.
- Always make sure you back up important stuff before shredding—mistakes happen.