Hardwipe

Hardwipe, developed by Big Angry Dog, is a free data sanitization tool that's effective for anyone who needs to ensure discarded sensitive information can never be recovered. This software, in its latest version 5.2.1, stands out for its privacy features, making it ideal for activists, journalists, IT technicians, or anyone else requiring secure deletion of data. Its user interface is intuitively designed, featuring optional support for right-click context menus in Windows File Explorer.

Hardwipe enables users to securely erase physical devices, logical volumes, individual files, and folders, as well as sanitize the Windows Recycler and free up drive space. Supported by all major sanitization schemes, including GOST R 50739-95, DOD 5220.22-M, Schneier, and Gutmann, Hardwipe ensures comprehensive data destruction.

This versatile program supports various Windows OS versions, including Windows 2000, XP, XP Professional, Vista, 7, 8, 10, and 11. Its program file names are hwgui.exe, and hwipe.exe. Other versions of the program available are 5.2, 5.1, and 5.0. Hardwipe falls under the Security category, with a specific focus on Privacy, ensuring users' peace of mind by making deleted files irrecoverable.

For those looking to download Hardwipe, it's a free tool for non-commercial use, though some premium features may require a paid upgrade. The developers also contribute 10% of sales to small charities.

Pros:

• Effective and comprehensive data destruction capabilities.
• User-friendly interface with support for right-click context menus.
• Supports all major sanitization schemes.
• Available for free download, with some premium features.
• Contributions to small charities.

Cons:

• Can cause significant data loss if used carelessly.
• Not recommended for shared PCs without secured Administrator login.
• It is not a basic PC cleaning app; for that, consider alternatives like CCleaner.

You may want to check out more software, such as O&O SafeErase, EncryptOnClick or Client Security Solution, which might be similar to Hardwipe.