How to empty an SSD?

[nils925]

Hi,

 

I just built my new computer, and I got an SSD in it that I bought on an auction (it was used as a demo product for a reviewer). Now, I think that SSD still has files on it (my bios told me it had 115000MB free, while it is a 256GB SSD. So, how do I empty the SSD? I still need to install windows on that new PC, but I don't know if that is safe while there are still files on my SSD.

[extremescouter]

When you install windows, there is an option to erase and partition the drive, when you are asked where you want to install windows. Do that, and you should be just fine. 

[havok2191]

When you put the Windows DVD in and boot from it. You will have the option to format drives (which wipes everything) before installing the Windows operating system on the drive of your choice. So just select the drive you want cleaned out (formatted) and you are good to go :)

[nils925]

When you install windows, there is an option to erase and partition the drive, when you are asked where you want to install windows. Do that, and you should be just fine. 

 

OK, so then the only thing on the drive would be the NEW Windows files?

[extremescouter]

OK, so then the only thing on the drive would be the NEW Windows files?

 

Yes, once you partition it, you should be able to see the amount of space on that drive. Make sure it correlates to the actual amount of space, and there will only be your own files on it. 

[needmorewood]

OK, so then the only thing on the drive would be the NEW Windows files?

as long as u format the drive then yes

[nils925]

Thanks for the quick and clear replies guys!

[alpenwasser]

OK, so then the only thing on the drive would be the NEW Windows files?

Yes. The old data could maybe still be recovered by a data specialized, but you won't come

across it unless you take the drive apart with a forensics tool

EDIT: Damn, too slow :lol:

[nils925]

Wait, right now I just clicked "install Windows", then selected custom install, now it asks me where to install Windows. I clicked the SSD, and then selected advanced options, and now I see "formatting" but the option is grey and I can't click it. So, what to do now?

[havok2191]

hit delete then format

[ALXAndy]

You don't need to format, Windows will do that automatically. You just need to delete the partition/s and then hit next.

[nils925]

Well, turns out I just got screwed over by the vendor. Basically I got a 128GB SSD, while I ordered and payed for a 256GB SSD. So no data on the SSD, I just got a lower capacity SSD. Heads will roll.