Technical data

6.4 Mass deletion (MultiDelete mode)

6.4.1 Mode of operation

With HDShredder, performing a mass deletion works exactly the same (simple) way as deleting

a single medium. The only difference is that instead of only one, multiple media can be selec-

ted. This becomes possible as soon as the option MultiDelete is being selected in the medium

selection dialog (5.7 Selecting the medium). Then it is possible to select multiple media from

the list. The further procedure then is the same as when deleting a single medium.

Note: When performing a mass deletion, the result on a single medium is identical with the

result of a single deletion – and hence equally secure. This is also valid when using one of the

different deletion modes (6.5 Deletion methods): regarding the result, there is no differ-

ence in comparison to a single deletion.

6.4.2 Speed

Mass deletion yields an enormous advantage in speed compared to single deletions. In case of

optimal connected media (6.4.3 Different media), speed increases straight proportional with

the number of media. For example, a fourfold deletion yields about four times the data

throughput of a single deletion.

6.4.3 Different media

Regarding mass deletion, HDShredder offers the possibility to connect all types of supported

drives in arbitrary combinations. But there may be huge differences in performance according

to which drives are used and how they are connected. For maximum speed, only IDE, SATA,

and SCSI drives ought to be used. And IDE drives should always be configured as master.

6.5 Deletion methods

HDShredder offers the respective deletion methods adequate for different areas of applica-

tion. They are grouped into three categories.

6.5.1 Automatic

This category is designed for a simple and secure deletion. It allows you to start the deletion

procedure fast and easily without further detailed technical knowledge simply according to the

criteria of time and security. The category therefore provides three deletion methods.

6.5.1.1 Fast – 1 run

This deletion method offers the highest possible deletion speed with one run only. This method

already prevents the data from being easily readout or recovered with conventional data re-

covery software.

6.5.1.2 Medium – 3 runs

For technical reasons, the security against recovering the data in a laboratory increases with

the number of deletion passes performed. This deletion method combines high security with a

reasonable duration of the deletion process.