Buying a computer system/Wiping my harddrive???

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Expert: - 6/21/2010


Question
Hello,
I just bought a new computer and want to sell my old one.
What is the latest, greatest and EASIEST way to ensure my old harddrive is wiped clean?
Thanks,
Cheri

Answer
You can use disk utilities from your hard-drive's manufacturer (so you'll need to know if the disk is a Seagate, Western Digital, Samsung, etc and then locate the appropriate download on their service page) to write 0's to the drive's surface (effectively restoring it to "new" state). Alternately you could just reformat the entire drive.

If you have further questions, or need clarification, feel free to ask.

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

Expertise

I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

Experience

I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

Education/Credentials
15+ years of experience

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