A data shredder is software that overwrites information on a storage device, making it impossible to recover. It can be used to protect proprietary information and refurbish old systems. Safeguards are in place to review files before shredding.
A data shredder is a type of software utility used to remove data from any type of storage device or hard drive. Unlike other methods used to delete unwanted data, a shredder works by overwriting the information, making it virtually impossible to recover the data once the process is complete. This is in contrast to other methods of erasing data from various devices, such as the demagnetization method or destroying the device itself.
Sometimes referred to as a CBL shredder, this software has the advantage of being able to overwrite the data and once again use those resources for the use of newer data that is still useful. At the same time, the ability to use the shredder to overwrite hard drives and storage devices means that information of a somewhat proprietary nature is effectively kept out of the hands of those who might be using the data for their own ends. From this point of view, the use of a data shredder can be seen as a security tool that protects historical data relating to business operations from being accessible by those outside the corporate structure.
Another practical benefit of using a shredder is that it makes it possible to erase hard drives before declaring old computer systems obsolete. By cleaning up the units, it is possible for older systems to be refurbished and sold to users at a lower cost, a measure that effectively leads to fewer components ending up in landfills. With many users choosing to purchase refurbished computers for use at home, this approach of destroying or overwriting older data means that the drive is ready to store new data that the owner will find useful, without posing a possible risk to the security of the original owner.
There are several data destruction programs on the market today that offer the benefit of overwriting older data as a means of making it inaccessible. Along with the paid programs, there are also some free types that can be downloaded relatively easily. With all types of shredding programs, it’s important to make sure that only certain files and data are selected for the shredding process. Most programs include some safeguards that prompt users to review files that are about to be overwritten, with paid projects usually providing a greater level of flexibility in screening and selection than open source applications. In any case, it is essential to review the files scheduled to be overwritten before ordering to complete the shredding, as once the process is complete it will be impossible to recover the now missing data.
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