Table of Contents
Have you ever wondered what happens to your data when you throw away an old hard drive or sell a used computer? If not, you should, because simply deleting files or formatting a drive is not enough to permanently erase all of your sensitive data. That’s where a data destruction tool like Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser comes in handy.
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is a powerful data erasure software that securely wipes data from hard drives, USB drives, memory cards and other storage devices beyond the point of recovery. In this review, we will discuss the features, pros and cons of Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser, alongside alternatives to help you make a well-informed decision.
Video Tutorial:
What is Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser?
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is a professional data erasure software designed to securely wipe sensitive data from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, memory cards and other storage devices beyond the point of recovery. The software uses advanced algorithms and multiple wiping standards, including DoD, NIST, BSI, and Gutmann, to overwrite data and make it irrecoverable.
One of the key selling points of Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is the ease of use, even for beginners. The software features a simple and intuitive interface, with step-by-step instructions for wiping your data. Additionally, it supports multiple languages, making it accessible to users worldwide.
Price
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser comes in three licensing options:
- The Home License, which costs $29.99 per year and allows you to wipe data from one computer only.
- The Professional License, which costs $79.99 per year and allows you to wipe data from up to three computers.
- The Technician License, which costs $199.99 per year and allows you to wipe data from unlimited computers and offers priority technical support.
Basics
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems and can be installed on both desktops and laptops. The software wipes files, folders, partitions, and even entire hard drives, including the operating system. You have the option to choose from several algorithms, including Quick Erase, DoD 5220.22-M, NIST 800-88, and Gutmann method to wipe your data.
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser also features scheduling options, which allow you to schedule data wipe tasks at specific intervals. This is especially useful if you have routine data wipe tasks to perform, or if you want to schedule data wipes during off-hours to avoid disrupting your workday.
Pros & Cons
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser has several pros and cons that are worth considering before purchasing.
Pros:
- Easy to use interface
- Multiple language support
- Advanced wiping algorithms
- Supports multiple storage devices
- Scheduling options available
- Zero residual recovery option
Cons:
- Relatively expensive compared to other data erasure software in the market
- No support for Linux operating systems
Our Thoughts on Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is an excellent data destruction tool, particularly for individuals and businesses with high-security needs. The software features advanced wiping algorithms, scheduling options, and an option to overwrite data multiple times to make it irrecoverable. Additionally, the simple and intuitive interface and multiple language support make it accessible to all users, regardless of technical expertise.
However, as we mentioned earlier, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is relatively expensive, especially for individuals who don’t require frequent data wipes. Also, the lack of Linux support may be a deal-breaker for some users who prefer to use Linux operating systems.
If you are looking for a reliable data destruction tool with advanced features and excellent customer service, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is definitely worth considering.
What Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser Identifies
Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is designed to identify and wipe sensitive data from all types of storage devices, including but not limited to:
- Hard Drives
- SSDs
- USB Drives
- Memory Cards
- RAID Arrays
- LUNs
- iSCSI Targets
Additionally, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser can also wipe data from virtual machines and network-attached storage (NAS) devices.
How to Use Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser
Using Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Download and install Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser on your computer.
- Launch the software.
- Select the storage device you want to wipe from the list of available devices.
- Select the wiping algorithm you want to use.
- Choose the number of times you want to overwrite the data.
- Click the ‘Erase Now’ button to start the wiping process.
Note that the wiping process may take some time, depending on the size of the storage device and the number of times you choose to overwrite the data.
Alternatives to Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser
If Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is not for you, here are three alternatives you might consider:
1. Blancco
Blancco is a data destruction software that securely wipes data from hard drives, SSDs, smartphones, and tablets. The software uses multiple wiping standards, including DoD 5220.22-M, NIST 800-88, and HMG IS5 Enhanced to make data irrecoverable. Blancco is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems and offers advanced features such as asset tracking, reporting, and certification.
2. CCleaner
CCleaner is a popular system optimization tool that also includes a data destruction feature. The software securely wipes data from hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards using the DoD 5220.22-M algorithm. CCleaner is compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems and offers a free version with limited functionality, as well as a paid version with advanced features.
3. Darik’s Boot and Nuke (DBAN)
Darik’s Boot and Nuke is an open-source data destruction tool that securely wipes data from hard drives, SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards. The software offers multiple wiping standards, including DoD 5220.22-M, and replaces the data with random characters to make it irrecoverable. DBAN is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems and is available for free.
5 FAQs About Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser
Q1: Is Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser accessible to beginners?
A: Yes, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser features a simple and intuitive interface with step-by-step instructions for wiping your data. Additionally, the software supports multiple languages, making it accessible to all users, regardless of technical expertise.
Q2: Can Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser wipe specific files and folders?
A: Yes, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser can wipe specific files and folders in addition to entire hard drives.
Q3: Which wiping algorithm is the most secure?
A: The most secure wiping algorithm is the Gutmann method, which overwrites data 35 times to make it irrecoverable. However, this method takes longer and may not be necessary for all users.
Q4: Can Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser wipe data from virtual machines?
A: Yes, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser can wipe data from virtual machines and network-attached storage (NAS) devices.
Q5: Does Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser offer technical support?
A: Yes, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser offers technical support to all users, regardless of the licensing option purchased.
In Conclusion
In summary, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is a powerful data destruction tool designed to securely wipe sensitive data from hard drives, SSDs, and other storage devices beyond the point of recovery. The software offers advanced wiping algorithms, scheduling options, and zero residual recovery. Although relatively expensive compared to other data erasure software in the market and lacks Linux support, Stellar BitRaser Drive Eraser is great for individuals and businesses with high-security needs. Additionally, the simple and intuitive interface and multiple language support make it accessible to all users.