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How Do I Wipe My Computer Clean

#1 instantclassic82

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Posted 10 April 2010 - 03:40 AM

Hello

I've bought a new computer and I'm giving my old one away but before I do I want to wipe it clean so none of my information is on there. Can you tell me how to do that, Please? On the computer I have Windows XP on it. Thanks

#2 rgreen4

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Posted 10 April 2010 - 05:39 AM

instantclassic82, on 10 April 2010 - 03:40 AM, said:

There is a free diskzapper utility that writes zeros to your hard drive to erase it. I have never used it, so cannot vouch for it. This is the main reason I keep all personal info on a separate data only drive (actually networked storage).

Be sure that you provide the XP restore disk to whomever you sell or give the machine to. An alternative if you are selling the machine is to just install a new HD and provide the OS with the machine, but then that will cost a bit more.

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#3 Grr8008

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Posted 10 April 2010 - 06:41 PM

You could install a new operating system. Or you could use a live CD of linux to format the hard drive.

#4 cpa1

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Posted 01 August 2010 - 08:37 AM

Grr8008, on 10 April 2010 - 06:41 PM, said:

You could install a new operating system. Or you could use a live CD of linux to format the hard drive.

I have an old PC still running W95, that I want to give away. Can you recommend any utilities/programs to permamnently remove sensitive data from the hard drive?

#5 SpiritWind

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Posted 01 August 2010 - 09:31 AM

cpa1, on 01 August 2010 - 08:37 AM, said:

I have an old PC still running W95, that I want to give away. Can you recommend any utilities/programs to permamnently remove sensitive data from the hard drive?

Hi CPA :

Have seen a top Security Expert recommend BCWipe,
available at http://www.jetico.co...-small-business .
However, their "Enterprise" version MAY be suited
to your situation .

For the very Best in Life :

http://www.ctftoronto.com

#6 LiveBrianD

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Posted 01 August 2010 - 03:41 PM

cpa1, on 01 August 2010 - 08:37 AM, said:

I have an old PC still running W95, that I want to give away. Can you recommend any utilities/programs to permamnently remove sensitive data from the hard drive?

Try DBAN to overwrite the data.

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