Data Destruction Software

Eraser works much like Freeraser listed above in that it is best used to permanently erase individual files and folders. Eraser isn't quite as easy to use as Freeraser but it's still a very well designed data destruction program.

Data Sanitization Methods: DoD 5220.22-M, AFSSI-5020, AR 380-19, RCMP TSSIT OPS-II, HMG IS5, VSITR, GOST R 50739-95, Gutmann, Schneier, Random Data

As far as advanced options go, Eraser wins the data destruction competition hands down. With Eraser, you can schedule data destruction with all the precision you'd expect with any scheduling tool.

Eraser works in Windows 7, Vista, and XP. Eraser also works on Windows Server 2008 R2, 2008, and 2003.

Important: Because Eraser runs from within Windows, you can not use the program to erase the drive that Windows runs on, usually C. Use a bootable data destruction software program from this list or see How To Format C for other options.