- Compatible with:
- Windows
- Available in:
- Desktop Security version 5
The File Shredder page within Windows Tools lets you permanently remove files or folders from your Windows device. Unlike normal deletion, which can leave pieces of data that someone might be able to recover, File Shredder overwrites your files so they can’t be easily restored with recovery tools. File Shredder provides three levels of secure deletion so you can select the appropriate shredding mode based on your needs: Basic, Thorough, and Paranoid.
To learn more about using your File Shredder, see Delete files with File Shredder on Windows devices.
Files Shredder modes
You can choose from three levels of security when shredding a file or folder. Some options are only available if you have a paid subscription.
- Basic: Overwrites and erases your data with a single pass through, following NIST 800-88 media sanitization guidelines. This mode is available for both free and paid users.
- Thorough: Overwrites and erases your data multiple times, following older media sanitization guidelines like DoD 5220.22-m. Choose this mode if you want added reassurance that your files cannot be recovered. Available only for users with a paid subscription.
- Paranoid: Overwrites and erases your data many times using complex patterns inspired by military standards. This mode is intended for extreme security scenarios and not for average use. Available only for users with a paid subscription.