File shredder software is an application for computers that permanently removes files from a computer. Differentiating between deletion and shredding are two separate concepts; while deleting merely hides a file from the operating system, it remains in existence until another file supplants that specific space.
A file shredder performs precisely this function; it overwrites designated files with a predetermined data sanitization method, thereby guaranteeing that the contents will not be recoverable using a file recovery program.
The following list comprises the most efficient and best free file shredder software applications, in my experience, with the best choices listed at the top.
Why do we need a file shredder?
A PC file shredder is a software application that securely deletes files through the process of data overwriting, which renders the original content practically unrecoverable. The utilization of a file shredder is justified due to the following factors:
Data Security and Privacy:
In the context of file deletion, it is common for the operating system to indicate the space as accessible for new data while preserving the integrity of the file content until it is overwritten. This enables an individual to be equipped with the appropriate resources to retrieve sensitive or confidential data. By ensuring that deleted files are removed irretrievably, file shredders safeguard your privacy and sensitive information.
Preventing Data Recovery:
The efficacy of conventional file deletion techniques in ensuring the permanent erasure of data is questionable. It is simple to recover deleted files using specialized software or instruments. Multiple times, file shredders overwrite the data of a file with arbitrary characters, rendering the reconstruction of the original content by recovery tools exceedingly challenging.
Adherence to Regulations:
Financial regulations, GDPR, and HIPAA are a few examples of compliance standards and regulations that mandate the use of secure data disposal techniques in certain industries. The implementation of a file shredder facilitates compliance with these regulations for organizations by guaranteeing the secure and irretrievable deletion of sensitive data.
Employing a file shredder when disposing of, donating, or selling your computer can effectively safeguard your data from unauthorized access. In the event that unauthorized individuals gain access to your obsolete hardware, there is a risk that they could recover and exploit your personal or sensitive data.
Preventing Forensic Analysis:
In the context of legal or investigative situations, entities or individuals may endeavor to retrieve erased files in order to conduct forensic analysis. By preventing forensic experts from recovering meaningful information from deleted files, file shredders ensure the protection of your digital footprint.
Complete Erasure of Sensitive Files:
Files may contain information, such as passwords, financial records, or personal documents, that you wish to ensure is completely eradicated. Utilizing a file shredder is a proactive action that guarantees the deletion of any remaining remnants of said files from the storage media.
Read More: The Best Samsung Smart TV Apps of 2024
List of Best Free File Shredder Software
Eraser
A very well-designed file shredder application is Eraser. In terms of sophisticated features, Eraser clearly emerges victorious in the file shredder competition. It enables you to precisely schedule file shredding, as one would anticipate from any scheduling application.
Random Data, AFSSI-5020, DoD 5220.22-M, RCMP TSSIT OPS-II, HMG IS5, VSITR, GOST R 50739-95, Gutmann, Schneier, and AFSSI-5020 are all examples of data sanitization methods.
Furthermore, I appreciate the File Explorer integration, which makes it much simpler to begin shredding files directly from the Folder in which they are stored. Another advantage that this free application provides is the ability to delete folders and drives in addition to shredding files.
At present, Eraser maintains support for Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, in addition to Windows Server 2012 through 2023.
WipeFile
WipeFile is one of my favorites due to its portability (no installation is required), support for multiple data-wiping methods, and distinctive features.
Bit Toggle, DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, NATO Standard, NAVSO P-5239-26, MS Cipher, Random Data, WipeFile, and Write Zero are all examples of data sanitization methods.
It is possible to preserve the folders and files that have been queued for subsequent restoration or removal. In addition to writing to a log file, WipeFile can be configured to operate via the “Send to” context menu in File Explorer.
The most recent version of this program was evaluated on Windows 10, but it ought to function on Windows 11, 8, 7, and other platforms as well. As development has ceased, this version represents the final iteration.
Freeraser
Using Freeraser is an absolute breeze. Comparable to Securely File Shredder from above, it creates a desktop icon resembling a recycle bin that functions as a file shredder. Drag a file or collection of files to the bin to permanently delete them from your computer.
Methods for Sanitizing Data: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, and Random Data
You have the option of installing the setup file as a standard program or as a portable program, in which case the files will be extracted to a folder that can be utilized on a removable drive.
Freeraser has been tested on Windows 10 and Windows 11, but it is also compatible with earlier versions.
Secure Eraser
Secure Eraser is a software suite that functions as a registry cleaner in addition to a file shredder. Neglecting the offer during setup will result in the installation of extra programs on the computer, which is the only drawback I have with this program.
Methods of Data Sanitization: VSITR, DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, and Random Data
Importing files and folders into Secure Eraser via drag-and-drop has been the simplest method I’ve encountered. They will appear automatically; to begin shredding, click Start deletion and select a method from the list above. Additionally, it functions via the right-click context menu.
There is a choice to exit the program, restart the computer, or close down the system once the file-shredding process is complete.
In addition to Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, Secure Eraser is compatible with Windows Server 2019 through 2003.
TweakNow SecureDelete
If you’re searching for a stylish and user-friendly file shredder application, TweakNow SecureDelete has it. The options are readily accessible, and the controls are intuitive.
Methods for Sanitizing Data: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, and Random Data
Drag and drop files and folders into the program or navigate for them. Changing the shredding procedure is straightforward, and an arbitrary number of passes can be performed prior to shredding an item.
The fact that this program contains two icons with similar names—”Remove” and “Delete”—could be perplexing. By selecting the “Remove” option, the file or Folder is delimited from the application window without the data itself being deleted. When set to delete the data, click the “Delete” button to implement the deletion process.
This tool should function properly on all versions of Windows. It was utilized in Windows 10 without incident.
Hard Disk Scrubber![Hard Disk Scrubber](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20515'%3E%3C/svg%3E)
It is effortless to perform file deletion using Hard Disk Scrubber; choose Add Files or Add Folder, followed by Scrub Files.
Random Data Sanitization Methods, DoD 5220.22-M, and AFSSI-5020
Hard Disk Scrubber additionally provides the capability to generate a personalized erase pattern, which may involve appending particular characters to the files.
This is a file-shredding application compatible with Windows 2000 and later. It was examined on Windows 11.
BitKiller
Quite simply, BitKiller is a portable file shredder application. Drag and drop or add specific files and folders to the queue, and then select one of the supported methods from the list below to delete them from the hard drive in a secure manner.
No additional icons that may be challenging to comprehend are present, and the program features an absolute absence of settings beyond those indicated on the left side. If you’re concerned that you might delete something you don’t intend to delete, this is a decent option.
Methods for Sanitizing Data: Write Zero, DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, Random Data
BitKiller’s inability to be used to terminate the shredding process even though a cancel button is present is one aspect of the application that I dislike.
This application is compatible with all Windows versions, including Windows 11 and 10.
Glary Utilities
Glary Utilities is a software suite containing numerous applications, including a defragmenter, a file shredder, and a registry cleaner, among others. The directory containing the file shredder is Advanced Tools > Privacy & Security.
Navigate for files and folders using the program window’s icons or by dragging and dropping them in. Additionally, you can select Wipe with Glary Utilities from the right-click menu of files or folders in File Explorer to transfer them to the file shredder application.
Methods of Data Sanitization: DoD 5220.22-M
Although it is probably not required, the data erase procedure can be repeated as many as ten times for a more comprehensive deletion.
Additionally, Glary Utilities can overwrite the entire hard drive’s free space. This feature proves to be valuable in guaranteeing that deleted files are permanently lost.
You will not enjoy this program if you prefer something uncomplicated, as it contains a multitude of additional tools. Nevertheless, the file shredder is straightforward to locate and functions adequately if you do not desire alternative wiping methods.
Windows versions across the board should be compatible with Glary Utilities.
Moo0 File Shredder
Similar to a few of the programs mentioned above that I have evaluated and enumerated, Moo0 File Shredder is an additional user-friendly file shredder application that resembles the Recycle Bin; for instance, it supports the simultaneous deletion of multiple files and folders via drag-and-drop into the program window.
Methods for Sanitizing Data: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, and Random Data
This program provides two options that I particularly appreciate. By configuring Moo0 File Shredder to appear atop all other windows, users can ensure they always have immediate access to erase files securely. Additionally, the affirmation prompt can be omitted to expedite the deletion process.
Moo0 File Shredder is officially compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and Windows Server 2003. It also functions with other Windows versions.
Hardwipe
Although Hardwipe is not as user-friendly as the file-shredder programs mentioned above, it does turn off or power down once the deletion process is complete and supports a variety of data sanitization methods.
Schneier, DoD 5220.22-M, GOST R 50739-95, Gutmann, Random Data, Write Zero, VSITR, and Random Data Sanitization Methods
It can destroy multiple folders simultaneously, which is a plus, but the small advertisement that is always displayed in the program is a drawback (though it is not overly intrusive).
It is compatible with all recent Windows versions, including Windows XP and Windows 10.
PrivaZer
As a PC cleanser, PrivaZer includes file shredding capabilities for deleting files and folders securely. Right-click context menu integration is supported, which I appreciate, and there are a few distinctive wiping methods that are not available in the majority of the other programs I’ve enumerated below.
Some methods used to clean data are AFSSI-5020, AR 380-19, DoD 5220.22-M, IREC (IRIG) 106, NAVSO P-5239-26, NISPOMSUP Chapter 8 Section 8-501, and NSA Manual 130-2.
By virtue of PrivaZer’s capability to perform numerous additional privacy cleansing tasks, such as removing internet activity traces and obsolete files, relying solely on its file shredding capabilities may prove to be a puzzling effort.
PrivaZer is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP and can be installed via the standard installer or the portable version.
PC Shredder
I appreciate that PC Shredder is portable and features an intuitive interface. Its file size is below 300 KB, making it an ideal candidate for storage on a USB drive. As the screenshot demonstrates, it is also incredibly user-friendly; search for a folder containing files to compile a list of items to pulverize.
Methods for Sanitizing Data: DoD 5220.22-M, Gutmann, and Random Data
Although PC Shredder is only compatible with Windows Vista and XP, I successfully utilized it on the Windows 10, 8, and 7 operating systems.
Conclusion:
Selecting the best file shredder depends on individual preferences, requirements, and the desired level of complexity. Eraser stands out for its advanced features and scheduling capabilities, while WipeFile’s portability and diverse data-wiping methods make it a convenient choice.
Freeraser and BitKiller offer simplicity, making them suitable for users who prefer straightforward functionality. Secure Eraser and TweakNow SecureDelete provide additional features, like registry cleaning. Glary Utilities is comprehensive but might be overwhelming for those seeking simplicity.
Ultimately, users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing a file shredder.