This means that it is only getting rid of the reference of your files, and your files are still dormant in the hard drive, waiting to be erased with new information. The 'Just remove my files' option will quickly reformat your drive, deleting the files on your PC as well as the data tables with the pointers associated with your files. If you're just looking to reset Windows 10, if your hard drive is running slow, or you want to have a fresh start for your computer, the option “Just remove my files” will work in most cases.īut if you need to sell your computer, donate it, or throw it away ( drop it off at one of our centers before just placing it in the bin), you should remove everything from your laptop. Why do you Need to Remove Files and Clean the Drive

Should leave this task to a professional service School administration, those with Windows laptops, IT professionals If you’re unsure of how to remove all data from your laptop PC, follow these steps! Multiply that time if you have copious devices that need wiping.

Not only will you have to wait around for the data erasure standpoint (especially the Remove Files and Clean the Drive task), but it will also require several user-inputted steps.

With the amount of personal and corporate data that each laptop houses, failing to remove all data and documents before selling or disposing could leave your company vulnerable to severe data breaches from people outside of your organization.įor companies or nonprofits that have multiple computers that are being replaced you can skip to the section below that describes how to manage this process without have to complete it one device at a time.Īgain, set aside time for this activity. If your company is planning to upgrade its computer systems, make sure the proper time is taken to clean up the old computers.

Your computer likely has years of crucial - and confidential - information that poses a risk if not removed. Gone are the days where you can sell or dispose of a laptop PC without wiping your device entirely of its data. Blog Remove Files and Clean the Drive: How to Wipe Windows 10 Laptop PCs How to Remove Files and Clean the Drive: From Backup to Wipe Hard Drive

Clean up laptop