Alternate File Shredder vs Blancco Drive Eraser

Alternate File Shredder is a free Windows program for permanently deleting files and folders. It can also overwrite a drive’s free space to reduce the chance of recovering files that were previously deleted. For overwrite patterns, users can choose a specific value, random values, or file content. It does not wipe entire drives or schedule shredding tasks. The maker describes the program as freeware and open source. Its listed systems are Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11, and Server;.NET Framework 2.0 is required, and the page says it has been included with Windows since Vista. The maker lists 20 languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, Chinese, and Japanese. The listed version is 3.100, dated 13.02.2026, and the freeware plan costs nothing. The maker warns that users run the program at their own risk and should take care when selecting files to delete. A contact form is available for messages.

Blancco Drive Eraser permanently overwrites data on HDDs, SSDs, NVMes and other drive-based devices. It supports loose drives, servers, desktops, laptops, Chromebooks and Apple T2 computers, with standards including DoD, NIST, BSI and IEEE 2883, among more than 20 others. Its SSD method uses firmware commands, freeze-lock removal, random overwrites and full verification. Each erasure is verified and produces a digitally signed certificate stored centrally for auditing. Customizable workflows can automate erasure locally or remotely across offices, data centers and employee home offices. Integration options include ITSM and ITAM systems such as ServiceNow, AMS or ERP systems, plus a REST API for ticketing, support, asset-management, WMS and ERP systems. Deployment options range from CD or USB and PXE to Windows or Linux preinstall, iLO, iDRAC, Cisco UCS, Intel AMT or appliance mode. The product is for corporate IT teams, enterprises, IT asset disposition vendors and other high-volume processors. A 14-day free trial allows up to five erasures, diagnostics or gradings and integration testing. Pricing is on request; a free trial is available, but there is no free plan.