Delete data on Hard Drive

[Missknowall]

I have windows 7 and recently tried to use 'Eraser' to permanently delete any data off my hard drive (recommended in a PC journal). However, after downloading it and trying to run it on my C drive I kept getting an error. I would be so grateful if someone knows of any other software I could download to do this. I would like to only delete unwanted data that may be stored on the hard drive. Would any software also delete, for example, everything I have on my 'C' Drive including current information I have and want to keep?

 

Thank you

[Jelly Bean]

Hello.

 

It would be simpler for you to run a full recovery and set back to factory reset.....

[Synapse]

What 'unwanted' data do you want to permanently delete?

[Missknowall]

Data to delete

 

What 'unwanted' data do you want to permanently delete?

 

Data to be deleted includes conversations on facebook, msn and skype that may be stored on the hard drive( have deleted them using usual ways- i.e from recycle bin too). If restore to factory settings what are the implications of that please? Would everything on pc be wiped off completely?

[Jelly Bean]

Yes all pictures etc would be gone unless you back them up to disk or USB or external hard drive.

 

It would set the computer back as if it just came out of the shop.

[Plastic Nev]

Also be aware that some data erasing software does the same thing, they wipe the hard drive entirely and then write random junk over the whole disk in order to make sure nothing can be retrieved. These are really meant to be used if for example, you are selling the computer and don't wish a stranger to see what may be on the hard drive.

Nev.

[Missknowall]

Thank you so much. It seems that a full recovery may be the best thing!