Method 3: Physically Destroy Your Hard Drive How to Wipe or Erase a Hard Drive in Windows 10? The OS on the bootable disk can be a lightweight version of the OS running in the computer, or it may be an entirely different OS.Īfter learning the precautionary measures, it is now time to learn the actual process of wiping a hard disk in Windows 10. What does a bootable disk do?Ī bootable disk is used to retrieve a failed operating system. Wiping Windows 10 hard drives needs a bootable USB drive or CD. Every device needs a driver to work with your PC. A driver is a software that a device uses to work with your PC. You can go to the device's official website and download the latest drivers. Download drivers.ĭownloading drivers is needed for the new operating system. Note down each program's serial number to have a hassle-free activation once you reinstall these programs again. You can only access them by reinstalling them into a new drive. Remember to save software serial numbers.Īside from files and important data, the wiping-off process deletes the applications and programs you purchased.

Once you wipe off the drive, there’s no turning back. Another thing, save your passwords and other important credentials. You can clone the hard drive or copy the files to that disk. There are a few ways to back up your data. You need a backup to make sure you keep the files you need. Remember wiping off the disk Windows 10 erases everything. Back up your data to a different hard disk It is important to do this because once the power goes out during the wiping-off process, your hard drive might get severely damaged. You can prepare a backup power source in case there will be power storage. Ensure the battery is full.Ī fully charged battery is another essential requirement for the process. Make sure the software can run on a bootable drive if you wish to completely erase Windows 10 hard drive. It is necessary if you want to clean the hard disk on your own.

You must use specialized software to disk wipe Windows 10 if you want to ensure that your confidential information is permanently lost. Download and install hard drive wipe software. Take note of the following guidelines: 1. So, it would be best if precautionary measures guided you before starting. Performing a disk wipe in Windows 10 is a meticulous process. FAQs Preparation Before Wiping Your Hard Drive

Wipe hard drive windows 10