Darik's Boot and Nuke SE User Reviews
-
"been looking so long"
Version: Darik's Boot and Nuke SE
Pros
My office is donating several computers we no longer use and I have been looking FOREVER for freeware to wipe their hard disks (they were running Windows XP so programs that require you to be able to boot in DOS don't work). DBAN is a dream come true, super easy to use, highly recommended for frustrated XP/Vista users who are at their wits' end!
Cons
DBAN needs some reviews (come on, CNET editors!) -- I skipped over this one the first time I browsed through disk wipe download options just because there isn't very much info available on how the program works.
-
"A MUST HAVE"
Version: Darik's Boot and Nuke SE
Pros
Some programs say that they 'wipe' your sensitive data but afterwards a good look will find it tucked away in 'empty' sectors.... DBAN is not one of those!
Simple text based user interface that gives you a choice of wipe methods including the now infamous Guttman Wipe which btw is not needed on new technology drives due to the difference in the way drives store data now versus back when Guttman wrote his paper (PRNG is probably the best for modern drives). You can also define the number of passes (rounds) that the wipe will make (I usually use 8 rounds) although the more you do the 'safer' you are.
I use this while I sleep for my HARDCORE wipes and Secure Clean for my general everday cleaning. When Dban is finished I just pop one of my system images back onto my now 'like new' drive and continue on my merry way.
Haven't tried it on a USB key or a bootable CD/DVD yet but those may be a possible solution for those of you who are floppy drive impaired.
Cons
While in reality no wiping program can probably make someone 100% safe from the prying eyes of who exactly(???) this program is definately a keeper!
Add Your Review
Submit your reply
E-mail this review
Report offensive content
You must be 13 years of age or older to submit personal information to CNET Networks. In compliance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998, CNET Networks does not accept name and e-mail address information from users who are under 13 years of age.
All submitted ratings and written comments become the sole property of CNET Networks, Inc. (CNET) and may be used at CNET Networks' sole discretion. Ratings and written comments are generally posted within two to four business days in batch groups, not in real time. However, CNET Networks reserves the right to remove or refuse to post any submission for any reason. You acknowledge that you, not CNET Networks, are responsible for the contents of your submission.
CNET Networks is not responsible for the content of the publisher's descriptions or user reviews on this site. We encourage you to determine whether this product or your intended use is legal. We do not encourage or condone the use of any software in violation of applicable laws. CNET Download.com does not sell, resell, or license any of the products listed on the site. We cannot be held liable for issues that arise from the download or use of these products.
