Free File Shredder for Windows

Permanently Shred Files You Choose

Delete sensitive files with an overwrite pass before removal. Review your selection, then shred it on your Windows PC.

Download Free for Windows See The App

Version 8.1.0 · Windows 10/11 · 64-bit · 17.9 MB

Free to use Works with local files Light & dark

Free File Shredder dark Windows interface showing a reviewed file queue and shredding controls — Actual desktop app. Click to view full size.Prefer a light theme?

Sensitive files deserve a deliberate goodbye.

A Clear Workflow

Three Simple Steps

Choose your files or settings, review your choice, then start.

1. Choose

Add the files you want to remove permanently.

2. Review

Check every path and confirm the irreversible action.

3. Shred

Overwrite the selected files, then remove them.

Built Around Your Task

Your Files. A Clear Final Check.

Use an explicit file selection and a confirmation step for a task that cannot be undone.

Read The Step-by-Step Guide

Delete Deliberately

See the exact selected paths before shredding begins.

Keep Files On Your PC

The BleachBit engine processes your selected files locally.

Understand The Limits

Overwriting does not guarantee erasure on SSDs, snapshots or backups.

Before you begin

Shredding is irreversible. This app targets selected regular files, not free-space wiping, whole drives or backup copies. SSD wear levelling, copy-on-write storage, cloud versions and snapshots can retain earlier data.

Your Workspace, Your Choice

Clear In Light. Comfortable In Dark.

Start in dark mode or switch to light. Your theme is remembered.

View original screenshot

Dark theme · Actual Windows interface · Click for the original PNG

Practical Help

Know What To Expect

Shred Sensitive Files On Windows

Choose specific files, review the paths and confirm irreversible shredding.

Supported Scope And Limits

Understand SSDs, backups and what a file overwrite can and cannot remove.

When Something Does Not Work

Check inputs, access and cancellation before trying again.

Questions, Answered

Before You Download

Straight answers about the current version and its limits.

Does shredding send files to the Recycle Bin?

No. Confirmed shredding overwrites and removes the selected files. Keep a separate copy of anything you may need before continuing.

Can I cancel shredding?

Cancel stops further processing. Any bytes already overwritten or files already removed cannot be restored by Cancel.

Does it guarantee unrecoverable deletion on an SSD?

No. SSD controllers, snapshots and cloud backups can retain copies outside the file being overwritten. Use your device manufacturer's secure erase guidance before disposing of an entire drive.

Will it shred Windows system files?

The app rejects protected system locations and unsafe links. Select only files you own and have deliberately chosen to remove.

What is the open-source engine?

The app uses BleachBit's real file-shredding engine. Engine notices and corresponding source are supplied with this release.