In this article, we’ll explore the process of degaussing hard disks. Hard disks are a source of sensitive data which can leak private information if not properly secured. The first step is to wipe the drive. Once a drive has been wiped, it should be degaussed to prevent electromagnetic interference from being emitted from the coil in the hard disk head.
Data erasure is not a simple process. One way to erase data from magnetic hard drives is by using degaussing, which involves using an electromagnetic coil to create an alternating current of alternating polarity that neutralizes the magnetic field on the disk platter. It also destroys any residual magnetization on the platters, making the drive unrecoverable.
Degaussing hard drives is the process of wiping the magnetic media on old hard drives so data can’t be recovered. The process was developed during World War II to prevent German submarines from using radar. Degaussing is done by running a current through the drive which causes any remaining magnetism to decay. After degaussing, the drive is safe for disposal or recycling.
