Applies to: Pro, Enterprise and Audit
Purpose
This operation applies the currently selected software overwrite profile to temporary data used to occupy addressable free space. It can require substantially more time and writes than the standard random free-space operation.
Select the method first
The command uses the method selected in the Settings. Before starting:
- Record the selected profile and pass count;
- Confirm that the profile is approved for free-space use;
- Estimate the effect of multiple passes on time and device writes;
- Confirm the selected volume;
- Ensure that the volume is not a storage type for which logical host writes are an inadequate sanitization technique.
Procedure
- Open CertErase.
- Select the approved erasure method in Settings.
- Open Tools > Wipe with Algorithm.
- Select the approved volume(s).
- Review the warning and selected profile.
- Start the operation.
- Monitor progress through allocation, overwrite passes, and cleanup.
- Review the final status and output.
- Export the required evidence.
Interpretation
A successful result means that CertErase completed its configured logical operations on the temporary files it created. It does not mean that every physical location previously used by deleted content was overwritten, particularly on flash media, virtual disks, thin-provisioned storage, arrays, or provider-managed services.
Selection guidance
Do not select a multi-pass profile merely to make a report appear stronger. Choose the technique on the basis of current policy, storage characteristics, data sensitivity, evidence requirements, and device disposition.