Deleting data from a PC/Laptop?

[Johnny Vinyl]

This may seem like a simple question, but what is the best way to delete ALL OF YOUR DATA? I want to do this on my old Toshiba laptop and was wondering if using the Recovery discs would do that.

[prerich]

Originally Posted by Johnny Vinyl

This may seem like a simple question, but what is the best way to delete ALL OF YOUR DATA? I want to do this on my old Toshiba laptop and was wondering if using the Recovery discs would do that.

No it will not, there are programs that will recover files that were "permenately" deleted. You would want to "nuke" the drive - here's a link to help you
http://www.wikihow.com/Permanently-E...f-a-Hard-Drive

I've used the nuke tool on UBCD4 and it's very effective.

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by prerich

No it will not, there are programs that will recover files that were "permenately" deleted. You would want to "nuke" the drive - here's a link to help you
http://www.wikihow.com/Permanently-E...f-a-Hard-Drive

I've used the nuke tool on UBCD4 and it's very effective.

Thanks Rich! I've bookmarked the site so when I'm ready to "nuke" it I can. I'm waiting to check out the new Microsoft Surface tablet (pro version).

[prerich]

Originally Posted by Johnny Vinyl

Thanks Rich! I've bookmarked the site so when I'm ready to "nuke" it I can. I'm waiting to check out the new Microsoft Surface tablet (pro version).

No problem kind sir!

[HyperRealist]

Use this.
http://www.dban.org/

[rdodolak]

Another article on various tools:

http://www.howtogeek.com/72130/learn...es-in-windows/

[3DinAK]

I can't even get to the dban page.ugh.

[jsvg00]

If you aren't interested in saving the drive and just want to make sure that someone at the dump doesn't retrieve data from it, I recommend pounding a couple of roofing nails through the round disc shaped portion of the unit.

[3DinAK]

My pc has a virus. We've tried all the spyware and antivirus. Most the instructions say I have to reboot or format it. And I'm not sure what I'm doing.

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by 3DinAK

My pc has a virus. We've tried all the spyware and antivirus. Most the instructions say I have to reboot or format it. And I'm not sure what I'm doing.

I'd suggest bringing it in to a tech if you can't resolve the issue on your own.

[Hatter]

Originally Posted by Johnny Vinyl

Thanks Rich! I've bookmarked the site so when I'm ready to "nuke" it I can. I'm waiting to check out the new Microsoft Surface tablet (pro version).

This will allow reuse of your hard drive, but theoretically your data is still recoverable by forensic analysis by well-financed governments.

Thought that was pretty funny regardless of the fact it's true.

[Changdonaik]

This is an awesome site from where I managed to get DVDs of my favorite movies at very low prices. Plus it has provided me innovative and super advanced games as well.