Deleting one or more files under Windows normally just moves those files to the recycle bin. These files only disappear from view when the recycle bin is full or the user proactively empties it.
When you delete a file on a Windows operating system, you might think that it’s gone forever. However, that’s not entirely true. Even if you press the delete button, the data still exists on your disk. This is because the Windows operating system simply marks the space occupied by the file as available for use. Until the space is overwritten by new data, the old file can be recovered using special software. This may not seem like a big deal, but it can have serious consequences.
O&O SafeErase works by overwriting the data on the disk with random or predefined patterns. The more times the data is overwritten, the less likely it is to be recoverable. The software has various wiping methods, including the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) 5220.22-M standard, which overwrites the data seven times. It can wipe the entire disk, including the free space, to prevent any traces of data from being left behind. Also included is the Gutmann method, which overwrites the data 35 times with different patterns.
NEW: Completely modernized Interface
OThe completely redesigned interface provides faster and easier access to deletion functions. Past deletion operations are displayed in a clear, organized manner. Optionally, O&O SafeErase can send reminders to perform regular cleanups, ensuring that sensitive data is securely erased.
NEW: Deletion Functions and Support for Additional Browsers
Traces of internet browsing activity and Windows system artifacts can be easily deleted. Specific cookies can be selectively excluded from the deletion process. New features include support for additional modern browsers, as well as a NIST/BSI-compliant deletion method for free space on system partitions and unpartitioned areas—a method based on the latest recommendations from the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).
NEW: Tamper-proof Digital Certificates and Command-Line Tools
Digitally signed, tamper-proof erasure certificates according to NIST SP 800-88 Rev. 2 provide reliable documentation, with optional timestamps. Improved command-line tools and administrator policies make secure deletion easier to automate and manage.
Fortress Mode
This unique feature enables O&O SafeErase to run completely isolated in its own Windows environment, so that no other app or program can run parallel or disturb it. Some Apps hold data to be erased or can prevent access. This not only increases security when deleting sensitive data, it also offers optimal speed and efficiency for the most crucial of operations. Fortress Mode allows administrative adjustments even in Safe Mode – ideal for forensically secure deletion processes before returning or transferring old PC systems:
- Integration of drivers,
- Configuration of network interfaces, and
- Unlocking of BitLocker-protected drives.
New and main features:
- NEW: Brand new user interface
- NEW: Increased privacy and new functions
- NEW: Tamper-proof Digital Certificates
- NEW: Command-Line Tools for automation and management
- Delete an entire computer, no boot medium necessary
- Delete internet traces and temporary program files
- Six methods to permanently delete confidential data
- Detailed reports as proof of deletion
- Analysis tool to search for unsafe deleted files
- Adapted deletion method for SSDs (Solid State Disks) with SolidErase
- O&O SafeErase supports Windows 11 and Windows 10
