data erasure

Individuals upgrading their technology must consider how to handle their old Windows PCs, ensuring the permanent deletion of personal files. For desktop PCs, swapping out the system drive can erase data, while laptops may require a full reset. On Windows 10, this can be done via Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, and on Windows 11 via Settings > System > Recovery, selecting the Remove Everything option. Users can also utilize the Clean Disk option or perform a clean installation by deleting disk partitions. However, Microsoft warns that these methods may not meet stringent data erasure standards, leaving the possibility of data recovery by skilled individuals. For systems with solid-state drives (SSDs), manufacturers often provide Secure Erase commands through management utilities. Third-party tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard also offer wipe disk options. Users can enhance security by encrypting the system drive using Windows’ built-in encryption tools before performing a clean install. If a Microsoft account is used on a device with BitLocker Device Encryption (BDE), the system drive is likely encrypted by default. Users can check for BDE support using the System Information utility. For Windows 10 Pro or Windows 11 Pro users, the Manage BitLocker utility allows for full drive encryption. If BDE is unavailable, the command Cipher /W:C: can be used to overwrite unused disk space, though this process may take a significant amount of time.