Nwipe is a command-line utility designed for securely erasing data from hard drives and other storage devices. As a fork of the dwipe command from Darik's Boot and Nuke (DBAN, nwipe enables users to perform data sanitization independently of DBAN, offering compatibility with various Linux distributions. It supports multiple recognized data erasure methods, ensuring that sensitive information is irretrievably removed from storage media.
Key Features and Functionality:
- Multiple Erasure Methods: Nwipe offers several data wiping techniques, including:
- Zero Fill: Overwrites the device with zeros in a single pass.
- DoD 5220.22-M: Implements the U.S. Department of Defense's 7-pass data wiping standard.
- Gutmann Method: Executes a 35-pass overwrite pattern for comprehensive data destruction.
- RCMP TSSIT OPS-II: Adheres to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's data sanitization standard.
- PRNG Stream: Uses a pseudo-random number generator to overwrite data.
- Verify Only: Reads the device to confirm it contains only zeros.
- HMG IS5 Enhanced: Follows the UK's HMG Infosec Standard 5 for secure data erasure.
- User Interface Options: Nwipe provides both a text-based ncurses user interface and command-line operation, catering to different user preferences.
- Parallel Disk Wiping: The tool can simultaneously erase multiple disks, enhancing efficiency in environments with numerous storage devices.
- Integration with Live Distributions: Nwipe is included in various live Linux distributions, such as ShredOS, Parted Magic, and SystemRescueCD, allowing users to boot from external media and perform secure erasures without installing additional software.
Primary Value and Problem Solved:
Nwipe addresses the critical need for secure data deletion, ensuring that sensitive information is permanently removed from storage devices. This is particularly vital for organizations and individuals aiming to prevent data breaches when decommissioning hardware or repurposing storage media. By offering multiple erasure standards and the ability to operate across various Linux distributions, nwipe provides a versatile and reliable solution for data sanitization requirements.
