Computer Help

[TXShine]

I have several older computers and a laptop that I'm wanting to donate. They are all in working condition, so I was wanting to know if there is a way to safely and completely remove all data except the operating system without having to buy some type of software to do so?

Any advise on what would be the best way to do this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[akimel]

Re: Computer Help

I would re-format the hard drive on both machines and then re-install the operating systems.

[miahjohn]

Re: Computer Help

i think no matter what you do the info will still be there somewhere for someone to find. your best bet is to remove the hard drive and donate them without it to be completely safe.

[PorscheGuy997]

Re: Computer Help

If you REALLY want to get rid of the data, take out the hard drive and drill a hole in it.

Other than that, a complete reformat is a decent solution.

[ColonelCash]

Re: Computer Help

Put a big magnet next to the hard drive....or don't donate the HD (which is a smart idea).

[miahjohn]

Re: Computer Help

If you REALLY want to get rid of the data, take out the hard drive and drill a hole in it.

Other than that, a complete reformat is a decent solution.

i was going to say take it to the shooting range..but I dont think Al Gore would approve of that!

[TerryAdams]

Re: Computer Help

I have several older computers and a laptop that I'm wanting to donate. They are all in working condition, so I was wanting to know if there is a way to safely and completely remove all data except the operating system without having to buy some type of software to do so?

Any advise on what would be the best way to do this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Darik's Boot and Nuke

http://www.dban.org/

One of the best "HD Wipe" apps out there... And FREE too.

Opps... I'm reading the posts too fast I guess. Dban wipes ALL data and OS too. So you won't want to use it, unless your doing a reinstall of the OS. Sorry.

[TXShine]

Re: Computer Help

Thanks guys.....

Taking the hard drives out was what I had been thinking...... and really didn’t want to go the whole reformat route. I knew asking here would reassure that thinking or someone would have a solution for me.

I do like the shooting range idea.

FWIW, after making phone calls etc... here and there over the last couple of weeks and trying to do the right thing and keep this stuff out of our landfills, I can see why a lot of people just say the heck with it and put it out with the trash.


Thanks again guys......

[Mike Phillips]

Re: Computer Help

Chance to use one of the new Smilies...

[Ryan L.]

Re: Computer Help

Like others have said, taking out the hard drive is your best option.

Ryan

[Megafast13]

Re: Computer Help

Either don't donate the HDD"s or buy the software...

There are software programs that can completely wipe the hard drive.

[miahjohn]

Re: Computer Help

Thanks guys.....

Taking the hard drives out was what I had been thinking...... and really didn’t want to go the whole reformat route. I knew asking here would reassure that thinking or someone would have a solution for me.

I do like the shooting range idea.

FWIW, after making phone calls etc... here and there over the last couple of weeks and trying to do the right thing and keep this stuff out of our landfills, I can see why a lot of people just say the heck with it and put it out with the trash.


Thanks again guys......

I thought you might like that idea