April 10 2006
Q: Is deleting my personal files all I need to do before I sell or donate my computer?
A: No, there are a few extra steps you have to take

Today, I want to talk about a tip that may not save you time, but perhaps will save you some frustration.  If you are planning on giving away or selling your computer, you may have deleted you sensitive files, purged your Recycle Bin, or even reformatted your hard drive to try to eliminate any sensitive information that you may not want others to gain access to.  This is not enough.  There are several software programs that can be purchased at any computer store that can recover these files.  You need to take an extra step.

Before you sell or give away your computer, you need to install and run a program that will delete your files then overwrite them with random data making them unrecoverable.  Some of the programs are: Symantec Wipe Info (comes with Norton System Works), Disk Wipe, and Window Washer to name a few.  These programs are available at retail stores or even on-line. 

Some of these programs will even search all the nooks and crannies of your computer to find and delete shortcuts related to sensitive files and even websites that you have visited.

When you run any of these programs, it will take some time so plan accordingly.  It may be best to start the process at the end of the day and have it run through the evening.