36
Erasing everything on your hard disk
It is strongly recommended to erase all the data on your hard disk before you dispose of your computer or give it to others.
Erasing all of your data on your hard disk with
Wipe and Erase Data
Use the Wipe and Erase Data software to wipe out your data on your hard disk. The erased data cannot be restored.
You need recovery discs to use this software. Create the recovery discs if you have not yet created.
For instructions on how to create the recovery discs, see “To create recovery discs” on page 17.
The erasing process automatically stops and your computer restarts if the process has not completed within 71 hours. The process will resume after the computer restarts.
Be sure to connect and use the power cord or the AC adapter to power your computer when using this software.
1
Make backup copies of your valuable files.
Make a backup copy of your data using the Back Up Files wizard if you can start Windows.
Make a backup copy of your data with the Rescue Data software if you cannot start
Windows. You can launch this software with recovery discs.
2
Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your computer, and turn on the computer again.
The Windows Boot Manager is displayed.
3
Press the
M or m key to select Start VAIO Recovery Center and press the Enter key.
4
Select Wipe and Erase Data and click Start.
5
Follow the on-screen instructions.