Eraser

Eraser is an advanced security tool for Windows which allows you to completely remove sensitive data from your hard drive by overwriting it several times with carefully selected patterns.

Eraser is a secure data removal tool designed for Windows PC/laptop users. It provides advanced algorithms to securely erase sensitive data from your hard drive, ensuring that it cannot be recovered by any means. Whether you're disposing of an old computer, selling a hard drive, or simply want to ensure your privacy, it offers a comprehensive solution to permanently delete files beyond recovery.

Most people have some data that they would rather not share with others – passwords, personal information, classified documents from work, financial records, self-written poems, the list continues.

• It works with All Windows
• It works with any drive that works with Windows
• Secure drive erasure methods are supported out of the box
• Erases files, folders and their previously deleted counterparts
• Works with an extremely customizable Scheduler

Perhaps you have saved some of this information on your computer where it is conveniently at your reach, but when the time comes to remove the data from your hard disk, things get a bit more complicated, and maintaining your privacy is not as simple as it may have seemed at first.

Your first thought maybe that when you ‘delete’ the file, the data is gone. Not quite, when you delete a file, the operating system does not really remove the file from the disk; it only removes the reference of the file from the file system table. The file remains on the disk until another file is created over it, and even after that, it might be possible to recover data by studying the magnetic fields on the disk platter surface.

Before the file is overwritten, anyone can easily retrieve it with a disk maintenance or an undelete utility.

There are several problems in secure file removal, mostly caused by the use of write cache, construction of the hard disk, and the use of data encoding. These problems have been taken into consideration when Eraser was designed, and because of this intuitive design and a simple user interface, you can safely and easily erase private data from your hard drive.

Features

• Secure Data Erasure: Utilizes advanced algorithms like Gutmann, DoD 5220.22-M, and others to securely erase data.
• Multiple Erasure Methods: Offers various erasure methods including single-pass, multi-pass, and custom methods to suit different security needs.
• Schedule Erasure Tasks: Allows users to schedule erasure tasks for convenient automated data wiping.
• Integration with Windows Explorer: Provides seamless integration with Windows Explorer, enabling users to securely erase files directly from the context menu.
• Free and Open Source: The tool is open-source software, freely available for personal and commercial use.

User Interface

It features a simple and intuitive user interface, making it easy for both novice and experienced users to navigate and utilize its functionalities effectively. The main window provides access to all essential features, and the settings are well-organized for customization.

Installation and Setup

Installing this tool is straightforward. Users can download the installer from the official website or FileHorse and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. Once installed, users can configure settings according to their preferences.

How to Use

• Launch the app after installation.
• Select the files or folders you want to securely erase.
• Choose the desired erasure method.
• Initiate the erasure process.
• Monitor the progress and verify completion.

FAQ

Can Eraser securely erase data from SSDs?
Yes, it supports secure erasure of data from SSDs, although the effectiveness may vary due to SSDs' wear-leveling algorithms.

Is it possible to recover data erased by Eraser?
No, it uses advanced algorithms to overwrite data multiple times, making it virtually impossible to recover using standard data recovery tools.

Can Eraser be used to wipe entire hard drives?
Yes, it supports wiping entire hard drives, including partitions, ensuring all data is securely erased.

Is Eraser for PC safe to use?
Yes, Eraser is a reputable software with a strong focus on security and privacy. However, users should always exercise caution and ensure they understand the implications of data erasure.

Alternatives

CCleaner: A popular utility that includes a secure file deletion feature along with system optimization tools.

Stellar BitRaser File Eraser: Offers similar features to this app with additional support for wiping mobile devices and external drives.

ASCOMP Secure Eraser: Another Windows-based secure data deletion tool with a user-friendly interface.

Pricing

The software is available for FREE as open-source software, making it accessible to all users without any cost.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11
• Processor: Pentium 4 or equivalent
• RAM: 512MB
• Disk Space: 20MB of free space

PROS

• Advanced data erasure algorithms
• Customizable erasure methods
• Integration with Windows Explorer
• Free and open-source
• Simple and intuitive user interface

CONS

• Limited platform support (Windows-only)
• May not be as effective on SSDs
• It's been a long time since there was an update on the official website