How to wipe a hard drive
Securely erase your data for a fresh start
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Whether you’re selling your computer or need more storage, knowing how to clear a hard drive is essential. Windows and macOS have handy built-in tools to format internal and external hard drives efficiently and securely.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to clear a hard drive. If you need speedy digital storage to keep up with your intensive requirements, you can check out our list of thefastest external SSDs.
Tools and requirements
Steps for how to clear a hard drive on Windows 11
Step by step guide to clear a hard drive on Windows 11
The steps for clearing internal and external hard drives are the same, but below, we only demonstrate steps to clear a hard drive that doesn’t have Windows installed on it. To clear a hard drive with Windows installed on it, read our guide onhow to factory reset a computer.
1. Launch File Explorer > This PC
Start bypressing Windows+Eto launch theFile Explorer. On the left-hand panel,click This PC.
2. Right-click the hard drive you want to clear
Right-clickthe drive you want to clear andclick Format. If you want to clear an external hard drive, ensure it’s connected to the computer.
3. Tick/Untick the Quick Format box and click Start
TickorunticktheQuick Formatbox based on your requirements.
Unticking the Quick Format box will ensure the drive is thoroughly wiped (data is overwritten), and although it’s more secure, it takes time. A quick format will swiftly clear the drive for you, but it won’t overwrite your data like the previous method, making it less secure.
Once you’re ready,click Start.
Steps for how to clear a hard drive on macOS
Step by step guide to clear a hard drive on macOS
Below, we only demonstrate steps to clear an external hard drive on macOS. To clear internal hard drives on your Mac, read our guide onhow to reset a Mac.
1. Launch Disk Utility
LaunchtheDisk Utilityapp after connecting the external storage to your Mac.
2. Select the hard drive and click Erase
Clickthe hard drive underExternalin the left sidebar. Then,clickErase, which is towards the top right.
3. Choose a Format and Security Options > Erase
Select aFormatandSecurity Optionsto decide between a swift erase or a slow but secure wipe that can’t be recovered.
Once ready,click Eraseand thenclick Done.
Final Thoughts
Clearing your hard drive is an effective way to ensure your data is securely wiped. Along with creating more room for your files, the additional storage can add an impressive boost to your system (or storage device) for optimal performance.
For more on storage, we’ve coveredhow to benchmark an SSD,how to install PS5 SSD, andhow to install an M.2 (NVMe/SATA) SSD on your PC.
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Nikshep Myle is a freelance writer covering tech, health, and wellbeing. He has written for popular tech blogs like Tom’s Guide, GadgetReview, SlashGear, and Creative Bloq, and has extensively reviewed consumer gadgets. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him meditating, gaming, discovering new music, and indulging in adventurous and creative pursuits.
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