by moonfire8
If you go to any software download website, you will see a whole load of various file shredder programs in the “Security” category. But what exactly are file shredders and how do they work? Let’s find out.
What is a software file shredder?
Basically, a file shredder is a software program that is designed to securely delete computer files, so that they can’t be recovered, e.g. shred them. “But how is it possible to shred a file?” you might think. Well, naturally a software file shredder doesn’t work as a traditional paper shredder. But the essence of what it does is very similar – it deletes documents and other files beyond repair.
How does a file shredder work?
A software file shredder makes sure the files you delete with its help can’t be recovered by any means.
When you simply hit the Delete button, your files are not actually deleted – they are moved to the Recycle Bin. You can restore them any time if you find out that you’ve deleted some files accidentally. But did you know that files can be recovered even after you’ve emptied the Recycle Bin? That’s because when a file is deleted, it stays on your hard drive and the space it occupies is marked as free. But as long as another file is not saved to that exact same space, the deleted file can be restored with the help of any file recovery software.
When you delete a file with the help of a file shredder, the file is rewritten using a combination of different characters and numbers. This ensures that the file is actually gone and can’t be undeleted even with the help of professional file recovery software.
Why do I need to use a file shredder?
If you think that a file shredder is only needed by people who work for the secret services, then you are mistaken. A file shredder is a software that is needed by everyone who has files containing confidential information. Do you have electronic bank statements, tax returns PDFs, documents that contain your social security number and your address? If yes, then you should use a good quality file shredder whenever you need to delete such a file. You should use a file shredder if:
- you are not the only person who has access to your computer
- you are planning to sell or donate your old PC
- you have important business information on your computer
- your computer is a laptop, which is easy to steal
Remember that using a file shredder will keep your private information safe and protect you from identity theft.
Tags: file shredder
