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Crypto Shredder vs File Shredder

Crypto Shredder

thugon.com

File Shredder

fileshredder.org

Side by side

FigureCrypto ShredderFile Shredder
Price fromFreeFree
Free planYesYes
Free trial——
Open source——
WindowsYesYes
Plans published12
Spec score · Secure File Shredding Software7.8 (#8)7.4 (#14)
Spec score · File Shredder Software7.6 (#17)7.3 (#18)
PurposeCrypto Shredder is Windows software that overwrites accessible file data before deleting files or directories.File Shredder is a free desktop application for shredding unwanted files beyond recovery.

Plans

Crypto Shredder

  • Free Windows EditionFree

Crypto Shredder pricing →

File Shredder

  • FreeFree
  • File ShredderFree

File Shredder pricing →

In their own words

Crypto Shredder

Crypto Shredder is Windows software for overwriting accessible file and directory data before deleting it. It replaces file contents with cryptographically generated random data, then flushes and synchronizes the write. It also processes an in-memory copy three times with AES-256-GCM, using a new 256-bit key and nonce on each pass; encrypted output is not saved as a file. Before releasing its final working buffer, the application overwrites it with zeros, while noting that Python and Windows may manage other temporary memory. Users confirm before processing and can optionally export a text report with the date and time, computer, Windows user, IP address, selected item, and processing sequence. The maker describes it as a standalone app that requires no installation. Crypto Shredder handles files and folders, not drive wiping. Its maker cautions that overwriting cannot ensure every physical NAND cell on SSD or NVMe storage is sanitized, or remove copies beyond the app’s control. The free Windows edition costs nothing.

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File Shredder

File Shredder is a free Windows desktop application for permanently deleting unwanted files. It overwrites files with random binary data multiple times, and users can select from five shredding algorithms of increasing strength. The queue accepts individual files and folders, including their contents and subfolders. Its integrated Disk Wiper targets unused disk space. An optional setting adds secure deletion, queueing, and launch commands to Windows Explorer’s right-click menu. The program is released under the GNU/GPL General Public License and is free for personal and commercial use. The help page lists Windows NT, 2000, XP, 2003 Server, Vista, 7, 8, and 10. The maker says the application is not intended to shred entire disk volumes and cannot provide support for it. Shredding is permanent and cannot be undone, so users should check their selections before starting. The home page lists version 2.50.

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