What is Data Wiping?
- Definition
- Data wiping is a software-based method of overwriting all data on a storage device with random patterns, making the original data unrecoverable while keeping the drive reusable.
Data wiping, also called data overwriting or software erasure, is a sanitization method that writes patterns of data (zeros, ones, or random characters) over every sector of a storage device. Unlike physical destruction, data wiping allows the drive to be reused afterward.
Modern data wiping software follows NIST 800-88 guidelines and typically performs a single-pass overwrite followed by verification. The verification step reads every sector to confirm the overwrite was successful. For standard hard drives (HDDs), a single verified pass is considered sufficient by current standards.
Data wiping is ideal when equipment will be remarketed or redeployed. It's more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than physical destruction because it preserves the usable drive. However, it requires that the drive be functional — failed drives that cannot be accessed by software must be physically destroyed instead. Certified data wiping generates detailed reports including drive serial numbers, sanitization method, pass/fail status, and timestamps.
Need Help with Data Wiping?
Our team can answer your questions and help you find the right solution for your organization.