Want to "Scramble" a hard drive?

[Andy1356]

I have previously deleted some files on my pc via Shift+Delete, which is the system's way of permanently deleting files. However, I understand that those files can still be retrieved through recovery software, and so I need a way to essentially scramble my hard drive without touching current files/formatting, as I do not have a copy of Windows 7 to reinstall my system.

I have checked out DBAN, but the program looks like it requires a re-install, so anything simpler would work much better.

Anything out there that can perform such a task?

Thanks

 

[momist]

An expensive solution would be to use Clonezilla to create a copy of your hard drive onto another one - either external or added internally - and then use DBAN or some other utility (there are many) to completely wipe your HD. Then either swap the HD, or copy back with Clonezilla. As far as I know, Clonezilla will only copy valid files, not those marked as deleted. You might want to check that out first though . . .

 

[Math Geek]

even made by microsoft and it's free https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/bb897443.aspx

this will wipe the free space of the drive and leave everything else alone. and once that is done it will securely wipe anything else as you need to with secure deleting. DOD spec wiping standards used.

it is command line however, so be sure to read the page for instructions on how to use it.