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Boot from DBAN to wipe your main drive, or install an app like KillDisk to erase other drives
Viacheslav Besputin / Istock / Getty Images Plus
Below is a list of the best, completely free data destruction software programs I've used. If you plan to sell or recycle your computer, wiping the storage system (hard drives or SSDs) is the best way to prevent someone from getting at your files using file recovery software tools. If your computer is infected with a virus, a complete wipe is the best way to ensure it's gone for good.
These apps are just one of several ways to completely erase a hard drive. Also, if a complete hard drive wipe isn't what you're after, check out our free file shredder software list for programs better suited for individual file destruction.
Can work inside or outside Windows.
Wipes data off any OS.
Easy to understand and use.
Requires your email address for the download.
Lacks safety measures in the Windows edition.
Windows edition doesn't work on Windows 11.
CBL Data Shredder comes in two forms: you can either boot from it via a disc or USB stick (like with DBAN) or use it from within Windows like a regular program.
To erase the hard drive that's running an operating system, you're required to boot to the program, whereas deleting another internal or external drive can be done with the Windows version.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, RMCP DSX, Schneier, VSITR
In addition to the above data sanitization methods, you can create your own custom method to include 1s, 0s, random data, or custom text with a custom number of passes.
The bootable version tells you how large each drive is, but that's about the only identifiable information given, whereas the Windows version makes it easier to know what drive you're about to wipe clean.
The Windows version of CBL Data Shredder is said to work with Windows XP through Windows 10. I tried it in Windows 11, but it didn't work like it should.
Not everything you see is free for non-pro users.
There's just one wipe method.
Active KillDisk is a freeware, scaled-down version of the KillDisk Pro data destruction tool. This unfortunately means some of the program's settings work only in the professional version.
Data Sanitization Methods: Write Zero
Like the above software, you can download a simple ISO file for burning to disc or USB drive. You can also install a regular application to run KillDisk from within the OS.
This program works with both regular hard drives and solid state drives.
It runs on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. There's also a Linux and Mac version available.
Can erase the whole OS.
Works with all operating systems.
Can't choose specific partitions only (must erase the whole drive).
Darik's Boot And Nuke (aka DBAN) is the best free data destruction software I've ever used. It's an open-source project and a great tool that should certainly be your first choice if you're wanting to completely erase a hard drive. However, you should know that it doesn't support SSDs.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, RCMP TSSIT OPS-II, Gutmann, Random Data, Write Zero
DBAN is freely available in a ready-to-go ISO format, so all you need to do is burn it to a CD or flash drive and then boot from it. The program's menu interface is also very easy to use.
See our How to Erase a Hard Drive Using DBAN for help.
Because DBAN works from outside the operating system, it can work with any version of any OS, like Windows, macOS, etc.
Not as user-friendly as programs with a GUI.
MHDD is another data destruction tool that utilizes Secure Erase to erase both mechanical and solid-state hard drives.
The thing I like best about MHDD is the variety of easy-to-use forms that it's downloadable in. You can download an ISO file for disc or flash drive booting, a floppy image, the program itself ready for your own boot disk, and more.
Data Sanitization Methods: Secure Erase
There is plenty of documentation, a FAQ, and even a forum for the MHDD data destruction program, all accessible from their download page.
Like the bootable data destruction programs from above, MHDD can erase any hard drive so long as you use a working operating system to burn the program to a disc/floppy/drive.
MHDD only utilizes the Secure Erase method for data destruction if you use the FASTERASE option available in the program.
Works inside and outside the OS.
Can't choose a different wipe method.
Bootable method isn't as easy to use as other tools.
Beginning in Windows Vista, the format command was granted the ability to write zeros during the format, giving the command basic data destruction abilities.
Data Sanitization Methods: Write Zero
Since all Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Vista users already have the format command at their disposal, this is a quick and effective data destruction method. Granted, you won't be able to satisfy some stringent data sanitization standards, but if that's not a concern then this option is perfect.
You can use the format command either as a data destruction tool from a bootable disc, enabling you to completely erase the primary drive, or as a way to erase any other drive from Command Prompt from within Windows.
The format command included with Windows XP and prior operating systems does not support this option. However, there is a way to use this method on a computer with Windows XP if you have access to another computer with Windows 11–7.
Useful automation options after deletion.
It won't erase the operating system drive.
Secure Eraser is a software suite that serves not only as a registry cleaner but also as a data destruction tool.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data, VSITR
After selecting the drive or partition that should be wiped, just click Start deletion to choose one of the above methods.
I like the post-delete options. After Secure Eraser has done its job, you can set it to automatically reboot the computer, exit, or shut down the computer.
Because Secure Eraser runs from within Windows, you can't use it to erase the hard drive that it's installed on (like the C drive). However, it does work with both traditional HDDs and SSDs, as well as USB-connected storage devices.
It can be installed on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as well as Windows Server 2019 through 2003.
Secure Eraser attempts to install another program during setup that you must deselect if you don't want it.
Simple to use; runs like any other app.
Works only for non-primary drives, like USB drives and other internal SSDs/HDDs.
Macrorit Data Wiper is different than the above programs in that it doesn't run from a bootable disc. Instead, it's a portable program that you must open from your computer like you would a regular program.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, DoD 5220.28-STD, Random Data, Write Zero
The program has a very nice look to it and is super easy to use. Just select a hard drive (regular or SSD) that should be erased and choose a wiping method. A few clicks later and the whole process will begin.
Windows is the only supported operating system, and because you have to run Macrorit Data Wiper from the hard drive, you're unable to use it to wipe the primary drive.
I tested Macrorit Data Wiper in Windows 10 and Windows 8, but it also works in other Windows versions like Windows 11 and XP.
The wizard walkthrough is easy for anyone to use.
Supports nine wipe methods, but the free version only supports three.
Remo Drive Wipe is a nice-looking data destruction program that runs inside Windows. You can wipe an entire disk with one of three different sanitization methods.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Random Data, Write Zero
The program itself is pretty simple, which is good in my book. It walks you through a type of wizard where you select the drive to wipe and then choose a deletion method.
Remove Drive Wipe is said to work in Windows 11 through Windows XP, as well as Windows Server 2008 and 2003. I tested it on Windows 11 and Windows 8 without any issues.
Works a lot like the built-in Recycle Bin.
Install it or run it as a portable app.
Freeraser, very much unlike some of the other programs on this list, is a full-fledged Windows application, complete with a setup wizard and Start menu shortcuts.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data
I like this one because it's incredibly easy to use. It places a Recycle Bin-like icon on your desktop, so you just need to drag all of a drive's files/folders into the bin for everything, subfolders and all, to be forever erased from your computer.
Freeraser can only delete files from a whole hard drive if it's connected over USB. Internal hard drives are not supported.
You can install Freeraser on Windows 11 through Windows XP. It can also be used as a portable program by choosing that option during setup.
Updates more often than similar programs.
It can't erase Windows.
Eraser is pretty easy to use and serves as a well-designed data destruction program with some unique features.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, AFSSI-5020, AR 380-19, RCMP TSSIT OPS-II, HMG IS5, VSITR, GOST R 50739-95, Gutmann, Schneier, Random Data
As far as advanced options go, Eraser wins the data destruction competition hands down. You can schedule deletions with all the precision you'd expect with any scheduling tool.
This program should work with both traditional drives and SSDs.
Because Eraser runs from within Windows, you can not use the program to erase the drive that Windows runs on, usually C. Use a bootable data destruction software program from this list or see How to Format the C Drive for other options.
Eraser works in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. It also runs on Windows Server 2016 through 2003.
More wipe methods than most of these apps.
Non-bootable means it can't wipe the Windows drive.
This is another portable data destruction tool that you run from within Windows.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, GOST R 50739-95, Gutmann, HMG IS5, Random Data, Write Zero
Disk Wipe is really easy to use because it walks you through a wizard to perform the wipe. Because it requires the OS to be running to work, it can't be used to erase the drive you have Windows running on, but it should work just fine for other mechanical and solid-state drives.
Disk Wipe is said to work only in Windows Vista and XP, but I tested it in Windows 10 and Windows 8 without any issues.
Good variety of wipe methods.
Can run from a portable location like a flash drive.
The other features might be too much if you're not interested in them.
Can only wipe the free space of the Windows drive.
While CCleaner is normally used as a system cleaner to remove temporary Windows files and other internet or cache files, it also contains a tool that can wipe free disk space or completely destroy all the data on a drive.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Schneier, Write Zero
CCleaner works from within the operating system, so it can't wipe the data off the same drive that Windows is installed on. However, it can wipe the free space of that drive.
You can choose more than one drive at once to wipe them all consecutively. It supports both SSDs and mechanical drives.
The latest version of CCleaner can be installed on Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7, as well as Windows Server 2008 and above. A portable option is available, too.
Lots of data sanitization methods to pick from.
Won't wipe the primary drive.
Hardwipe runs from inside Windows. You can clean free space or even wipe an entire drive (SSD or traditional), so long as it's not your primary drive.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, GOST R 50739-95, Gutmann, Random Data, Schneier, VSITR, Write Zero
I think this one's easy for anyone to use. Just load the drive that should be cleaned and choose a data wipe method.
Hardwipe works with all the most recent versions of Windows, from Windows XP to Windows 11.
A small advertisement is always displayed in the program, but it’s not too intrusive.
Protections in place to prevent accidental deletion.
Good to have on hand for partitioning purposes.
File wiping isn't its main focus.
Not everything in the program is free to use.
AOMEI Partition Assistant Standard Edition is a free disk partitioning tool for Windows that includes a disk wipe feature for both traditional and solid-state drives.
Data Sanitization Methods: Write Zero
This program is primarily used as a disk management program, so finding the data wipe feature among all the other settings can be a little daunting. However, you must confirm every operation you try to perform, so it’s hard to accidentally cause harm to any files.
AOMEI's tool works with Windows 11 through Windows XP.
Easy to use from the right-click menu.
Extra features not related to data wiping.
PrivaZer is a PC cleaner that can also securely delete all the files/folders from a hard drive. Right-click context menu integration is permitted as well as some unique wiping methods you won't find in many of the other programs listed here.
To use this tool to wipe away a whole drive, choose Delete without a trace from the main menu, select Sensitive directories, and choose a hard drive.
Data Sanitization Methods: AFSSI-5020, AR 380-19, DoD 5220.22-M, IREC (IRIG) 106, NAVSO P-5239-26, NISPOMSUP Chapter 8 Section 8-501, NSA Manual 130-2, Write Zero
These methods can be changed through Advanced options > Cleanup.
Because PrivaZer can do many other privacy cleaning tasks like deleting old files and erasing internet activity traces, it can be a confusing process to use just the data wipe feature. But if you want something a bit more useful than just a data wipe tool, then you might like the extra stuff.
PrivaZer works in 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. A portable version is also available from the download page.
Few, but still good wipe methods.
No need to install it since it's portable.
Stopped updating with new features in 2008.
Can only erase other drives, not the one Windows is installed on.
PC Shredder is a small, portable data wipe tool that runs like any other software in Windows.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data
I like that this app is portable and has a simple UI. It doesn't seem apparent that you can wipe an entire disk, but if you choose Add Folder, you can simply select a disk, and it will erase everything that’s on it.
PC Shredder is said to work in only Windows Vista and XP, but I didn't have any problems using it with Windows 10.
Supports three popular wipe methods.
Supports drag and drop for easy deletion.
Won't erase the Windows drive.
TweakNow SecureDelete has a nice, clean interface with simple buttons. It’s really easy to wipe clean entire hard drives with this program.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data
Like many similar programs from this list, this one lets you drag and drop files and folders directly into the program to remove them. If you're erasing an entire hard drive, drag everything over, subfolders and all.
It's said to work only with Windows 7, Vista, and XP. However, I tested it on Windows 10 and Windows 8 without any issues.
Supports a relatively unique wipe method.
Old software with no recent updates.
Hard Drive Eraser is a portable program that can wipe all the data off of a secondary hard drive. It works with both SSDs and mechanical HDDs. Otherwise, there's not really anything special about it that separates it from the other picks in this list.
Data Sanitization Methods: AR 380-19, DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Write Zero
Hard Drive Eraser is said to work with Windows Vista and XP only, but I could also use it just fine in Windows 10 and Windows 8.
Supports erasing the Windows drive.
Supports erasing secondary and external drives.
No choice for sanitization method; just one option.
Some features seem free until you try to use them.
HDShredder is available in two forms, both of which work with one data wipe method.
Data Sanitization Methods: Write Zero
You can use HDShredder from a disc or flash drive and boot from it to erase the drive that has Windows installed on it, like the C drive. Alternatively, you can install it to Windows like a regular program and use it for securely erasing data from a different drive, like a flash drive or a different hard drive.
The Windows version can be installed on all versions of Windows back through XP, as well as a handful of Windows Server operating systems.
Several additional features appear to work in this free edition until you try to use them, after which you'll be told you need to upgrade to a paid version to use it.
Choose to erase a partition or the whole drive.
Only a few wipe methods to pick from.
MiniTool's app runs from inside Windows like a regular program.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, DoD 5220.28-STD, Write Zero
To use it, select whether you want to wipe a partition or whole disk and then choose a sanitization method. There aren't any unnecessary tools or settings that can be confusing.
You can use this program on both traditional and solid state drives.
MiniTool Drive Wipe can run on 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. Windows 2000 is also supported.
Really old software that might not work in future versions of Windows.
Only works on other hard drives (not the Windows drive).
I like to use Super File Shredder because it's another simple program that's easy to understand. It also supports drag and drop to quickly delete entire hard drives, both SSDs and traditional drives.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data, Write Zero
Just start by choosing a sanitization method from the settings, then add the entire hard drive to the queue or drag and drop it from File Explorer. Like many of these data destruction programs later in this list, Super File Shredder can only wipe drives other than the one you're using.
It works with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Erase files, folders, and drives.
Pick from several wipe methods.
Can't stop deletions in progress.
Unhelpful if you need to erase the Windows partition.
As one of the simpler data destruction programs, BitKiller lets you add an entire hard drive to the list of files to destroy without any extra options or buttons to make things confusing. Plus, it's completely portable.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data, Write Zero
Because there isn't a "hard drive" section to this program, you need to choose Add Folder and then select the hard drive you want to erase.
Something I don't like about BitKiller is that it doesn't let me cancel the file shredding once it has started. There is a cancel button, but it's not clickable once deleting has begun.
I tested BitKiller on Windows 10 and Windows 8.
BitKiller runs from inside the OS, which means you can't use it to erase the hard drive that you're using to run Windows. To erase the C drive, you'll need to choose one of the programs from the beginning of this list that boots from a disc.
More options than most of these apps.
Makes you verify that you really want to erase the drive.
Starts in German (but you can change it).
WipeDisk is a portable hard drive wiper that's pretty easy to use and supports several data wipe methods. You can log activities to a file, optionally wipe just the free space, and choose custom text to use for overwriting data.
Data Sanitization Methods: Bit Toggle, DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, MS Cipher, Random Data, Write Zero
After clicking Wipe, you must read and confirm a four-character code to ensure you really want to erase all the files, which is a handy obstacle used to avoid accidentally erasing a whole hard drive.
I tested WipeDisk on Windows 10 and Windows 8, but it also runs on previous versions of Windows.
WipeDisk defaults to German when it's first opened, but it can be easily changed from the Extras menu. Also, the download is a RAR file, so you might need an unzip utility like 7-Zip to get to the program.
Clear buttons make it simple to understand for inexperienced users.
Erasing a whole drive isn't as intuitive as other programs make it.
Unable to wipe the main drive.
XT File Shredder Lizard is another data destruction program that works in all the newer versions of Windows, like Windows 11 and Windows 10, and probably older ones, too.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Random Data, Write Zero
To wipe a whole hard drive of its data, simply choose to add a folder and then select the root of the drive you wish to securely erase. If that doesn't work, add all the root folders, but just not the actual drive letter.
You can erase files on both SSDs and traditional hard drives.
The program is a bit outdated and therefore is a little different to move around in.
Good spread of wipe methods, although there are only three.
You might find it cluttered due to its extensive list of tools.
Runs within Windows, so it won't erase the OS partition.
Several diagnostic, cleaning, and optimization tools are included in Ashampoo WinOptimizer Free, and one of them is made specifically for erasing data from a hard drive.
Inside this program is a mini tool called File Wiper which lets you erase the contents of a hard drive by selecting a folder. It can also erase the contents of the Recycle Bin (and single files) using any of these sanitization methods:
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Write Zero
To use this tool, go to the File tools menu on the left of the program and then choose File Wiper from there.
This one works with Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7.
Erase the drive or just the free space.
Quite outdated; no changes since 2013.
Only available in non-bootable form (can't delete the OS partition ).
Puran Wipe Disk is a super simple program that can wipe data from internal and external drives. You have the option to wipe just the free space or the entire disk.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Schneier, Write Zero
Like other non-bootable, installable programs in this list, you won't be able to use this program to wipe your C drive.
Puran Wipe Disk works in Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, as well as Windows Server 2008 and 2003.
Easy to trigger from the right-click menu.
Ideal if you're also looking for other system tools.
Just one wipe method available.
Cluttered with other unrelated functions.
Doesn't wipe the C drive.
Wise Care 365 is a system optimizer program that includes several tools, one of which is for data destruction. You'll like this app if you want more than just a file wiper.
To use it, load a hard drive using the Add Folders button and click Shred to immediately start the process. You can also shred files from File Explorer by right-clicking and choosing Shred file/folder.
Data Sanitization Methods: Random Data
Wise Care 365 can also completely remove deleted files by overwriting them with more secure sanitization methods than the data destruction tool. This tool is called Disk Eraser, located in the Privacy Protector section of the program.
This option works with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. There's also a portable version available from within the installable version.
There isn't a confirmation prompt after clicking the Shred button, so ensure you're ready to remove the files before clicking to do so.
Unique features like password protection.
Might not work on modern versions of Windows.
Can't expect new features anymore (it's really outdated).
It's easy to erase a whole hard drive with Simple File Shredder because it's as straightforward as browsing for the drive and clicking Shred Now.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data
If you choose the Random Data wipe method, you can choose how many times (1-3) you want the data overwritten.
Some unique things about this program are drag and drop, context menu integration, and password protection for the whole program.
Simple File Shredder performs just as the name suggests - it's very easy to use and isn't as complicated as some of the others on this list.
Unfortunately, you might need to pass on this one if you're running a modern version of Windows because I was able to get it working only in Windows XP.
My main focus in adding DeleteOnClick to this list is that it's remarkably simple to use. It has no buttons, menus, or settings. Use the program by right-clicking a hard drive and choosing Securely Delete. You'll be prompted to confirm the removal of all the files.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M
This program supports only one data wipe method, so it's not nearly as advanced as most of these other programs.
Because DeleteOnClick runs from inside Windows, it can't be used to erase the primary drive that Windows is installed on.
It can be installed on Windows 11 through Windows 2000.
Erases hard drives from the right-click menu.
This data destruction program works much like the others in this list.
Data Sanitization Methods: Schneier, Write Zero
The shredding method can be changed from the menu.
I tested AbsoluteShield File Shredder in Windows 10 and Windows XP, so it should also work with Windows 11, 8, etc.
Works from within and outside of Windows.
Several wipe methods to choose from.
It's text-only; no buttons.
CopyWipe can run from a disc or from inside Windows, though both methods are text-only, non-GUI versions.
Data Sanitization Methods: Gutmann, Random Data, Secure Erase, Write Zero
CopyWipe for DOS has an Entropy Source option you can define before erasing a drive, which lets you choose how random data should be created. For example, you can enter random keys on the keyboard to generate entropy for the operation or choose to use the current time and speed of the computer.
There are hardly any options with CopyWipe, and although the interface is in text form and not too user-friendly, it's actually pretty simple to use and makes you confirm that you want to wipe a drive before starting.
CopyWipe for Windows is entirely portable, which means it doesn't need to be installed before you can use it. It runs on Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Deletes files or whole folders/drives.
Supports just one wipe method.
Might be hard to use if you're unfamiliar with the command line.
SDelete, short for Secure Delete, is a command-line based data destruction tool and can be run from the Command Prompt in Windows.
Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M
SDelete is part of the Sysinternals Suite of free system utilities available from Microsoft. It does not utilize Secure Erase even though its name might lead you to think otherwise.
SDelete works with all Windows operating systems newer than Windows XP, as well as Windows Server 2008 and higher.
Convenient right-click option within File Explorer.
Additional tools like a temporary files cleaner.
Void of recent updates (and the UI shows it).
Occasionally bugs you to pay for it.
ProtectStar Data Shredder can erase a whole hard drive at once and even works from the right-click context menu in File Explorer. Just choose Erase files and folders from the main screen, then Add Folders to browse for the hard drive to wipe.
Data Sanitization Methods: Random Data
This program sometimes prompts you to buy the professional version, but you can easily click USE FREEWARE to bypass them.
I was able to run ProtectStar Data Shredder in Windows 10, 7, and XP, but I'm sure it also works in other versions like Windows 11.
ProtectStar Data Shredder is no longer being updated by its developers, but this download link still contains the program.
Can run a few informational tasks if you want them.
No data wipe choice; just one option.
Runs via the command line.
Unusable until you extract it from the archive.
Can't wipe the C drive.
hdparm is a command line based tool that can be used, among other things, to issue a Secure Erase firmware command to a hard drive.
Data Sanitization Methods: Secure Erase
Using hdparm as a data destruction software program is risky and unnecessary with a great Secure Erase based data destruction tool like MHDD, listed above. The only reason I've included this method of issuing a Secure Erase command is that I want to have a comprehensive list of options available.
I don't recommend that you use hdparm unless you're very familiar with command line tools. Misuse could cause your hard drive to become unusable.
hdparm works with Windows 11 through Windows XP. It downloads as a TAR.GZ file.
This option runs from within Windows, so you can't use it to erase the drive Windows is installed on. If that's what you want to do, you'll have to use a bootable data destruction software program instead.
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