Alternate File Shredder review
A free, configurable Windows shredder for files, folders, and drive free space.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Alternate File Shredder is a freeware, open-source Windows utility for people who want to permanently delete selected files and folders. It also overwrites free space on drives, addressing a different task from shredding selected items. Its published platform support spans Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11, and Windows Server. The straightforward scope makes it a fit for individual and small-scale Windows use, rather than a broader data-erasure program.
Its main point of control is how overwriting works. Users can configure the number of passes and choose a pattern: a specified value, random data, or file contents used as a template. That gives users options for handling selected files and folders as well as free space, without implying a whole-drive erase workflow. Buyers who specifically need free-space overwriting and configurable methods may find that focused toolset appropriate; those who need to wipe an entire drive should look for a different product.
The product is described as a desktop utility and has no paid tier in its freeware positioning. It does not provide scheduled shredding, so recurring jobs are not part of the described workflow. Its Windows-only platform scope also makes it unsuitable for people who need a cross-platform tool. Choose Alternate File Shredder for direct, configurable deletion on a supported Windows system; choose an alternative if full-drive wiping, recurring schedules, or another operating system is essential.
Alternate File Shredder pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Permanently deletes selected files and folders
- Overwrites free space on drives
- Configurable passes and overwrite patterns
- Where it doesn't
- Does not wipe entire drives
- No scheduled shredding
- Windows desktop utility only
Alternate File Shredder fact sheet, pricing and score →
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