Prepare an old PC for a new owner

Before you give away a computer, you should make sure that your most private, sensitive files are irretrievable. You don't want them to fall into the wrong hands.
But that's not all. You should also return the hard drive to its factory condition, so that the new owner can set it up as they choose.
Let's discuss both topics.
Securely wipe sensitive files
If a file contains information that you'd rather not fall into criminal hands (or government hands), merely deleting that file isn't sufficient--even if you empty the recycle bin. Deleted files can be restored with simple, free software.
Instead, you should wipe those files--overwriting them with new, meaningless data. As a general rule, the more times the file's former location on the drive surface is overwritten, the more secure the wipe . . . 
More at: PCWorld:

 Also:  Remove Sensitive Data Before You Sell an Old PC - go here.

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