Files deleted in this way can be easily recovered bydata recovery software.
Due to data privacy security or other reasons, this method may not meet your request for data deletion.
So, how to permanently delete files from external hard drive without destroying the drive?
For detailed instructions, kindly keep reading.
Windows is slow to delete files?
Why does it take so long to delete files?
Get possible reasons and corresponding solutions from this post.
How to Permanently Delete Files From External Hard Drive
Way 1.
Delete External Hard Drive Files Using CMD
you might permanently delete files by running the CMD tool.
Files deleted using the clean all command are almost impossible to recover.
Press theWindows + Rkey combination to openRun.
In the text box, typediskpartand pressEnter.
After that, selectYesin the UAC window.
Input the following commands, and pressEnterafter each command:
Click to Tweet
Way 2.
However, drive data formatted by checking Quick Format through File Explorer can still be recovered.
To permanently delete hard drive data by formatting, you better untick the Quick Format option.
Press theWindows + Ekeyboard shortcut to open File Explorer.
Move on toThis PCsection.
In the right panel, right-hit the target external hard drive to selectFormat.
In the new window, specify thefile systemand volume label, and uncheckQuick Format.
Finally, click theStartbutton.
Is it possible to delete/remove unallocated space in Windows 10?
The answer is Yes.
This guide will show you how to delete unallocated space.
Way 3.
Wiped data can hardly be recovered by any file recovery tool.
How to wipe an external hard drive?
you’ve got the option to usefree hard drive data wipe software MiniTool Partition Wizard.
Download, install, and launch MiniTool Partition Wizard.
MiniTool Partition Wizard FreeClick to Download100%Clean & Safe
Step 2.
Step 3. choose the desired wiping method and clickOK.
Finally, click theApplybutton in the lower left corner to apply all the changes.
MiniTool Power Data Recovery is the most recommended free file restore tool.
Download, install, and launch MiniTool Power Data Recovery.
Besides, you’ve got the option to preview the files to check whether they are needed.
Select all desired files and click theSavebutton to choose a file storage location for the recovered files.
Are you looking for a way to recover data from SD card formatted as internal memory?
Get detailed instructions from this step-by-step tutorial.
Should you have any questions about MiniTool software, feel free to contact us via[email protected].
