How To Properly Erase Your Computer
Do you know how to properly erase your computer? If your answer is no, you may want to pay close attention.
If you’re thinking about getting a new computer and you don’t know what to do with your old one, you can always consider donating the computer or even selling it to a friend or family member who may be interested in it. However, the biggest problem with selling your old computer is that it is often very difficult to get all of your information off of it even when you know what you’re doing. The following is a helpful guide to point you in the right direction when it comes to removing all of your information off of the hard drive on your computer.
Backup All Files Before You Erase Your Computer
I shouldn’t have to say this, but I will anyway. Before you even think about getting rid of your old computer and removing all of the old information off of it, you have to make sure that you have everything you need off of it. Once you erase your hard drive, there is nothing else you can do and all of your files will be gone. There are plenty of different ways you can transfer all of your data such as by using an external hard drive to back it up, using the included transfer program with your new computer that allows you to transfer data from your old computer onto your new computer or you could even use the helpful backup features that are most likely built into your computer. No matter what you do, the importance is in making sure that a backup of all your data and files exists somewhere for you to access.
Find The Best Option For Removing Data
Essentially, there are two different choices for you when it comes to removing your data. You can either do it on your own or you can take it to a certified refurbisher who will handle it for you. If you’re unsure of the best option, the following information will most likely help you out.
Using A Refurbisher
If you have highly sensitive data on your laptop such as bank account information, passwords and other data, then your best bet will be to take it to a certified refurbisher because they will ensure that your data is safeguarded and they will use secure data destruction standards to eliminate all of your information.
Do It Yourself
If you don’t have a lot of high risk information, this is going to be a great choice for you. This method will help to eliminate the majority of all the data on your computer but there is always the chance of someone recovering it. If you feel comfortable with performing advanced tasks on your computer, then you can do this on your own.
Simply download a specialized software that is specifically designed to overwrite your information on the computer and will meet all of the government standards. There are plenty of free programs on the internet that will do this for you such as KillDisk, Active@ and Softpedia DP Wiper.
While you should have no problem erasing your data whether you do it on your own or you use a certified refurbisher, there is one important thing that you need to remember. It is nearly impossible to wipe all of the data off a computer. No matter what method you use, there is always still a chance of someone finding and accessing your data. If you have the option, it is always best to sell or give your laptop to someone you know, so if they do happen to find any personal information, you know it is in the right hands.
West County Computers is your number one source for Santa Rosa computer repair and maintenance. Have a question about your computer or laptop, give us a call today at 707.360.8652
