permanently deleting data

[pooker]

I understand that the only secure way to delete data is too destroy the hard drive, but I am curious if there are any good free programs that can erase the empty space on my HD as good as possible. I just deleted a bunch of important files (selling my laptop) and I want to make sure that they are at not easily retrievable since they are still physically on the hard drive. I would reformat and use dban but I do not have my original OS disk so this sounds like the best method.

Thanks

 

[Remeniz]

I use RevoUninstaller.

It has many uses as well as permanently getting rid of 'deleted' data

 

[tom-knox]

Why not format the drive completely with a good cleaning program then just reinstall your operating system?

 

[Atomic Rooster]

Why not format the drive completely with a good cleaning program then just reinstall your operating system?

I do not have my original OS disk

OK. . .


I believe that Kill Disk can be used to help permanently erase deleted files.