You could either employ a disk wiping program or physically destroy the hard drive, causing it to lose the data on your hard disk.
Using Software:
To wipe out the data that are stored on the hard disk by using software, you'll need something similar to Killdisk or Darik's Boot n Nuke, or similar programs. These programs erase information from the hard disk, rendering it unretrievable.
However, it has limitations since it can't always ensure the total destruction of information. Professional grade software is far more efficient in destroying data and gives certificates of removal of data.
If you consider their price these professional programs may not be appropriate for individual users However, in the case of an enterprise that has many hard drives that need to be destroyed then you should consider this alternative.
Utilizing your hands with no tools:
Sometimes, you want to decide for yourself. hands.
Finding your Hard Drive out of your computer:
If you own a tower or desktop PC, make sure that it is switched off. Then, slide the side panel open to access your hard disk. Remove any screws or other restraints which may be keeping the side panel in the position.
Then, locate the hard drive. It is necessary to take out the power as well as data cables through the drives. Remove the screws that hold your drive to the framework and it should be able to slide out.
Laptops can be more challenging, but it's not too difficult. It is necessary to remove the screws that are located on the bottom of your laptop. Follow the instructions on your laptop's user manual to remove all screws. Remember that there's typically at least one screw beneath the sticker.
After you've opened your laptop, the process is identical: find your hard disk, unplug the cables that are attached to it, then take it from the device.
The next step is to use to have a Torx screwdriver in order to loosen the screws that are on the drive, and an flathead screwdriver to push the hard drive off.
The Quick Method:
The method renders your data impossible to retrieve, but it doesn't destroy it. Therefore, while it isn't possible for anyone to plug in your drive and access your data, anyone who has the knowledge and time such as a hacker might be able access your information.
Remove all the screws from the drive with the Torx screwdriver. Take care to locate the screw under the sticker. After you have removed all screws, open the drive case and flip it upside down to locate that circuit board.
Once again, use your Torx screwdriver to loosen the circuit board. Cut the circuit board in two and throw it away. The data you have stored is no longer retrievable.
The Thorough Method:
Follow the steps above to access your hard drive, then remove your circuit board. Then you'll be able to see a circular disk with an extension similar to an arm for a phonograph over it. This disk is known as the platter. It has been coated in palladium and the data is saved magnetically on the platter. The arm that is flat reads and writes the contents of the disc.
There are many platters in an internal hard drive, and each comes with their own read-write arm. Make use of the Torx screwdriver to loosen the screws that are holding each platter. Scrape the platters away and scratch them with the sharpest object, like the flat-headed screwdriver.
It will permanently harm the storage platters that store data and make it nearly impossible for anyone else to access your data.
If, however, you're an institution or business with many hard drives that need to be destroyed the drives one by one, doing so is not an ideal solution for you.
In this case you could use shredders to break up the hard drives in order to guarantee the security of your data. Also, you can take them to an accredited recycler who will erase the data prior to recycling.