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Don't really understand the 2 'Wipe Free Space'


grits2

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Sorry for my stupidity when it comes to computers.

 

I'm the only one using this PC & don't at this point have to worry about my drive filling up.

 

I'm guessing that MFT means Master File ? which at this point is "Greek to me"

 

Both of those have check marks by default but not sure I really need them checked?

 

Thank you.

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Wipe Free Space fills your empty space with data to overwrite what was once there.

 

Windows works with a "Master File Table" which is essentially a table of contents for all the files on your drive. When you delete a file, nothing actually changes, the Master File Table just says "okay, there's not a file there anymore. You can overwrite this."

 

This allows data to be recovered if deleted. Wiping the free space (and the MFT space) will overwrite the data with the intent of making it unrecoverable. It is mostly a security thing and will not speed up your computer. If you have no reason to run it, don't. It takes ages.

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If you are paranoid about anyone recovering your data. Don't own a computer. The agencies have software to recovery about anything. FYI... I don't even wipe anything, its a waste.

 

Sent from my Xperia Play

 

 

Your Friendly Neighborhood Piriform Forum Moderator

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The only thing I'm paranoid about is messing up my PC. I'm still trying to learn. So . . . sounds like I should/can just Uncheck those 2 & just go about the regular junk cleaning.

 

Thanks to all. :)

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I'm the only one using this PC & don't at this point have to worry about my drive filling up.

Please note that Wiping will never increase your free space. :)

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