Wiping a hard drive from the BIOS requires a bit more technical know-how than using a software-based solution. It’s important to note that this process will erase all data on the hard drive, so make sure you have a backup of any important files before proceeding.
Here are the steps to wipe a hard drive from the BIOS:
Step 1: Accessing the BIOS
To wipe the hard drive from the BIOS, you first need to access the BIOS menu. This can be done by restarting your computer and pressing a specific key on your keyboard as it boots up. The key you need to press varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer, but it’s usually one of the following: F2, F10, F12, or Delete.
Once you press the key, you should be taken to the BIOS menu. If you’re not sure how to navigate the BIOS menu, consult your computer’s user manual or look for instructions online.
Step 2: Changing the Boot Order
Once you’re in the BIOS menu, you need to change the boot order so that the computer boots from a bootable USB drive or CD/DVD containing the wiping software.
To do this, look for an option labeled “Boot Order” or “Boot Priority” in the BIOS menu. You may need to navigate through different tabs or menus to find it. Once you’ve found it, select it and move the USB drive or CD/DVD drive to the top of the list so that it boots first.
Step 3: Save Changes and Exit
After changing the boot order, save the changes and exit the BIOS menu. You may be prompted to confirm the changes before exiting.
Step 4: Boot from the Wiping Software
Once you’ve exited the BIOS menu, your computer should boot from the USB drive or CD/DVD containing the wiping software. Follow the instructions provided by the software to wipe the hard drive.
The exact steps for wiping the hard drive will vary depending on the software you’re using, but most wiping software will have options to erase all data on the drive or overwrite it with random data to make it unrecoverable.
Step 5: Reboot the Computer
Once the wiping process is complete, remove the USB drive or CD/DVD from the computer and reboot it. You can then reinstall the operating system or use the computer for a new purpose.
In conclusion, wiping a hard drive from the BIOS requires some technical know-how and careful navigation of the BIOS menu. If you’re not comfortable with these steps, it’s best to use a software-based solution or seek the help of a professional. Remember to always back up your important data before wiping a hard drive.
