Shred files, folders, and disks

You can shred an item at any time. When you shred an item, the Shredder tool ensures that the information cannot be recovered.

Before you shred an item, make sure no other programs are using it and check that you have the appropriate permissions required to delete it. For more information, see Windows Help and Support.

Open the Shredder tool.

How?

Select the items you want to shred.

Select...

To...

Recycle Bin

Delete the contents of your Recycle Bin.

Temporary Internet Files

Delete the contents of your Temporary Internet Files folder.

Let me choose

Choose your own folder to shred.

If you choose your own folder, the Shredder tool deletes the folder and its contents.

Select the Shred type:

Select...	To...
Quick	Shred the selected item once.
Basic	Shred the selected item two times.
Safe	Shred the selected item five times.
Comprehensive	Shred the selected item seven times.
Complete	Shred the selected item ten times.

Click Shred, then in the the confirmation dialog box, click Shred again.