When you dispose of a file through the Windows Recycle Bin, it always leaves some residue. Experts can recover the files with simple tools. This is because Windows marks the space of the files as available, but doesn't actually delete the file. With Hardwipe this works.
Step 1: Hardwipe
Hardwipe is a multifunctional program to really destroy data. You can run files and folders through the digital shredder, but you can also trace and destroy the remains of files that may still be present. Also, Hardwipe offers a shredder for the standard Windows recycle bin. You can use this to safely destroy files that you have thrown in the trash in the normal way. Also read: I am not allowed to delete a file in Windows 10.
Use Hardwipe with the attention a powerful program deserves. Errors can be punished with data loss. If you take the time to use the program correctly and always double-check your choices, Hardwipe is safe to use.
Step 2: Empty Trash
If you want to destroy a file or folder, Hardwipe works best with the right mouse button. Right-click on a folder, for example, and choose Wipe folder. The option is called wipe file or Wipe selection when you right-click on one or more files. Hardwipe becomes active and you need to confirm your action again with Start. To really destroy the files in your recycle bin, fire up Hardwipe from your start menu. click on recyclers for an overview of your trash cans. This can be more than one if you have multiple drives or partitions. Check the trash can(s) whose contents you never want to see again. Activate Administrator mode and confirm with OK / Start.
Step 3: Remediate free space
Leftover data with remnants from which files can be recovered can be destroyed with Free space. Indicate which drive letter you want to remediate and put Hardwipe to work. Please note that this action may be detrimental (or may not work well) for SSD users and therefore we do not recommend it. This advice applies to SSDs in general if you want to destroy large amounts of data. Most SSD manufacturers have their own program to destroy data. It is recommended to find and use this. Unfortunately, not all of these programs offer the ability to selectively destroy data.
