This how-to tutorial explains how to download, install, and use Microsoft's SDelete utility, which allows users to securely and completely delete files in Windows 10. Third-party tools are availableįor this process, or you could opt for a free Microsoft-provided tool. To securely and completely delete a file, you have to overwrite the specific memory sectors on your storage device with new data. However, because of how file storage works in Windows 10, with some simple tools, a person with malicious intent could still retrieve a deleted file, which could be a serious problem if that file contains sensitive data.
To permanently delete a file in Windows 10, you have to empty the Recycle Bin-this is common knowledge for most users. If you want, you can retrieve a file from the Recycle Bin and restore it to its previous status. In general, when you delete a file or directory in Microsoft Windows 10 it is moved to a special location known as the Recycle Bin. Windows 11: Tips on installation, security and more (free PDF).
