Clear everything!

I just got a new computer, so now I am giving my old one to someone else. But I don't want that guy to sort out my drive to see what I've been doing. So how could I "safely" clear everything from my drive, leaving just window installed. (Just like a new computer)
I even want the record from reg. editor be delete too!!

 

Depends how paranoid you are. There's absolutely nothing you can do to completely prevent someone from getting your data back. If you want a total guarantee, you have to melt the drive platters with a blow torch.

Most people are comfortable using software that performs a series of read/writes on every sector of the drive. That'll prevent most people from recovering your data. To do that, however, you have to completely format your drive. Then you'd have to reinstall Windows.

 

Mike
The only way to actually make sure there is nothing left is to reformat and reinstall the OS. If you wish to transfer other programs to the individual then give them the CD's and let them make the decision to install.
Dave

 

Mike_Clearnet

Download Norton SystemWorks and run Norton WipeInfo.

Norton WipeInfo removes all traces of selected files or folders from your hard drive. It can also wipe the free space on your hard disk, insuring that previously deleted information is not left on your hard disk.
You can use the Fast Wipe, which writes all zeros or any other character you choose. Alternately, you can use the Government Wipe, which is a 7-pass procedure that conforms to the method specified in DoD document 5220-22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual.

Be certain before you use WipeInfo. You cannot unerase information after it has been wiped.

The steps for a Government Wipe are as follows:

1 The data is overwritten with all 0s, and then overwritten by all 1s.
2 The first step is repeated as many times as you like.
3 Then a random value, or any other value you choose from 0 to 255, is written.
4 The value written is verified to insure that it was written correctly.
5 The entire process is repeated as many times as you like.


There you go.
Now if you have the CD or know someone that does then you can run it from the CD.
Norton Disk Doctor
Norton WinDoctor
Norton UnErase
Norton WipeInfo

These can all be run from the CD so if you got it or a friend then ask to use it.

 

The best way has to be a FDISK & Format!!

However make sure you've a Boot Disk with your CD drivers on it prior - makes life a lot easier installing Windows from CD when you can access the drive

 

Thanx guys

 

Mike
Your Welcome! Most people that get a new/used computer never worry about what was on it prior and only are concerned with what, how, and when can I get it to do all those neat things.
Dave