Using the Dell BIOS Data Wipe function for OptiPlex, Precision and Latitude Systems

Data Wipe

Data Wipe is a new functionality added to the most recent generations of Dell Business Class systems. Data Wipe allows for the erasure of all internal storage devices in the system using a single BIOS integrated function of the system. The Data Wipe process will delete all data from all internal SerialATA (SATA) drives on the system and the data will not be recoverable.

Depending on the size and type of storage devices, this process may take several hours.

Once the Data Wipe process is initiated, all data on the system will be unrecoverable. If the process is aborted during the Data Wipe process, the operating system and data will be corrupted and unrecoverable.

Data Wipe process

The Data Wipe process is initiated in the system BIOS.

1. Boot to the system BIOS by press the F2 at the Dell Splash screen during system startup.
2. Once in the BIOS, select the Maintenance option, then Data Wipe option in the left pane of the BIOS using the mouse or the arrow keys on the keyboard (Figure 1).
   
   Figure 1: Select Maintenance then the Data Wipe option in the BIOS
3. Next, check the Wipe on Next Boot option in the Right Pane, This will generate a warning pop-up explaining what will occur and confirming you want to continue with the erase operation (Figure 2).
   
   Figure 2: Select Wipe on Next Boot and confirm the selection on the warning message that appears by selecting OK
4. A second pop-up will appear for final confirmation of the Data Wipe operation. The default response on this pop-up is to cancel the process, click NO if you want to continue with the Data Wipe operation (Figure 3), then click Exit to leave the BIOS settings.
   
   Figure 3: Select NO on the second confirmation screen that appears to continue the Data Wipe process
5. The system will now reboot and you will be presented with a Dell Security Manager screen for FINAL confirmation of the Data Wipe operation. At the point you can still cancel the operation and the Default choice will be Cancel. You have to manually select Continue to continue the Data Wipe Process (Figure 4).
   
   Figure 4: Select Continue to proceed with the Data Wipe process
6. If you decide to cancel, you will be presented with the following screen (Figure 5):
   
   Figure 5: Click OK on the message that appears if you wish to fully cancel the Data Wipe process
7. If you decide to continue, you will see the progress screen. This process may take several hours depending on the number and size of connected SerialATA storage devices (Figure 6).
   
   Figure 6: The process screen appears if you elect to continue with the Data Wipe
8. Once complete, you will be presented with this screen. Upon rebooting the system, no operating system will be found and you will need to reinstall the operating system and all drivers and applications (Figure 7).
   
   Figure 7: Click OK to reboot the computer once the Data Wipe process is complete

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