XL Delete

When you need to get rid of sensitive data, on your computer, there is more to do than simply delete the file. Just like in the real world, documents must be shredded, to make sure that no one will read them. XL Delete can be used for the same purpose, on your computer. It is the equivalent of a real world shredder. In fact, it is the equivalent of a highly expensive shredding machine, due to its advanced wiping capabilities.

The setup wizard resembles the one that guides you when installing Windows XP, but this should not discourage you. There are only a few basic settings to make and the software will be ready in about one minute. XL Delete works on Windows 2003 and all the later versions, including Windows 8 (32 and 64-bit). The system requirements are not high, but you should make sure that MS Visual C++ Runtime 9 is installed on your computer.

Due to its simplicity and its easy to understand functions, the interface will not present any challenges, even if you are a novice user. The options are represented by large and colored buttons, with clear labels, so you will get used to them in no time. You can target any files, by adding them to a list, in the central area of the interface. The available options allow you to add individual files or entire folders. Alternatively, you may drag and drop any items over the files list.

Clicking an option, located on the program's toolbar, will bring up a small window, where you can select a shredding method and start the process. XL Delete includes numerous algorithms that will erase and overwrite data multiple times. It is possible to switch from the main interface to an explorer-style window, with the same shredding option. This allows you to find and target data much faster, because you may explore your files and drag them to the same files list, on the same window. You can also filter your files by name or extension.

Besides shredding targeted files, the software is also capable of wiping your free disk space, purging a drive's file table and deleting temporary files left behind by various browsers or the system itself. In addition, XL Delete makes it possible to lock a partition's free space or part of it, preventing anyone from writing new data. It is also possible to schedule any task, from erasing specific files or folders to wiping temporary data. The software can execute these tasks automatically on a daily, weekly or monthly basis or when you log on.