Does anyone know where I can get a hard drive eraser that erases all the data on my computer but KEEPS the operating system intact. So pretty much starting all over again, without reinstalling the OS. Thanks!
dont think think that exists cus really it makes no sense. the data won't be erased even if it did exist.
Not quite true. A program like System Mechanic can write and over write (user selected number of times and patterns) all deleated and empty disc space and does not touch files that are not deleated. Im sure there are some free ones out there. Try download.com You would be looking for something that uses the Gutmann or DoD Methods.
bkf, i didn't say without exeption or imply that it wasn't possible. its just what koowater wants, doesn't exist. that iam pretty sure of
KooWater, The operating system is stored on the hard drive, hence erasing it will definately take the OS along with it Are you asking for a 'File Shredder'(program to erase single files) by any chance?
If you disable system restore through the registry, and delete what you dont want then no one should be able to get your info.
1. Right click the My Computer icon on the Desktop and click on Properties. 2. Click on the System Restore tab. 3. Put a check mark next to 'Turn off System Restore on All Drives'. 4. Click the 'OK' button. 5. You will be prompted to restart the computer. Click Yes. if you want to permenantly delete files send them to the recycle bin and then run ccleaner or get yourself tune up utilities comes with a disk shredder program to delete what ever files you want forever.
Thanks for all the replies! But I found out how to do it. See, on the start screen of my Dell computer theres a option that says "sytem restore." (I think I had to press F10 or something) But when my computer had started up I didnt notice it because it went by so fast. But again, thanks for the help!
The only absolute way to completely erease data from your hard drive is a Big Hammer. A lot of hammering on a concrete or steel surface will do the trick. Or, put it in an oven or fire for an hour or 2. at High Heat! Believe me, if you think there aren't ways to retrieve it after a format, you're wrong. The Government agencies have tools that can retrieve data from a formatted hard drive. In fact, Windows XP saves data on a reformatted hard drive with your knowlege. So does Vista.
it is still possible to retrieve data from smashed disks thats exactly why i wouldnt suggest hammering or burning, i'd suggest both still dont ever do it in a closed room, fumes may be harmful
If you really want to securely get rid of a hard drive's contents you have to not only format but use a secure format tool to format the drive before any OS boot up. Like DBAN "http://dban.sourceforge.net/" which runs from a floppy/cd-rom.
All format tools do is delete the file system/partition table so you can't see it. Like suggested only way is to destroy it. Or rewriting over and over again with random data in certain patterns (Also suggested).
