I'm looking to return my laptop, which has only one M.2 slot, and I need to wipe my SSD clean, including the operating system since it runs on Windows 10. What is the easiest way to do this?
4 Answers
Before you try anything, check if your BIOS has an SSD secure erase option. If it’s there, that’s usually the best method to wipe everything safely.
Unfortunately, not all firmware includes secure erase options, so you might need to look for alternatives.
You could run a Linux live environment from a USB stick to format the SSD, which would wipe everything, including the OS. It’s quick and effective if you’re comfortable with it. Just create a bootable USB and boot into Linux.
That sounds like a solid option! But is there any way to do this using Windows itself?
Yeah, you could also use a Windows installation USB to delete the partitions during the install process. That way you don’t even need Linux.
Using a bootable Linux USB is one of the easiest ways to wipe your drive. Format it from there if you're not too sure about using Windows options. It's straightforward and gets the job done!
What’s the step for making that bootable USB?
You can use tools like Rufus to create the bootable USB with a Linux distro. Just follow the instructions and you’ll be set!
Just head to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, then click on 'Reset this PC.' Make sure to select 'Remove everything' to completely clean out your personal files and apps, along with the OS. Follow the instructions, and you should be good to go!
Does that really wipe the OS too, or just personal files?
Yes, it removes the OS and everything else, just be sure you choose the right reset option.
Doesn't every BIOS support that kind of utility though?