cipher.exe not completing its tasks

[hikerguy62]

So, I have an old HDD that has data on it (no OS) and I want to secure wipe/erase all unallocated space on it. I've tried running the cipher command 3x and it has failed to finish every time. Once it got to the point where it's writing all ones (FFFF) and just hung. The other two times it hung while trying to perform it's first task of writing all zeros.

Any thoughts why it keeps hanging?

WIN11 24H2

 

[hacxx]

Possible Causes & Fixes:

1. Failing HDD: Old drives may have bad sectors or hardware issues—check health with CrystalDiskInfo.
   
   
2. Connection Issues: Try a different SATA/USB port or cable.
   
   
3. Alternative Tools: Use format /p: (multiple passes) or DBAN for secure wipes.
   
   
4. Permissions: Run Command Prompt as admin.
   
   
5. Background Processes: Close apps that may interfere.
   

If cipher.exe consistently hangs, the drive might be failing. Test with a live Linux USB (e.g., GParted) to rule out Windows quirks.

 

[hikerguy62]

Thanks for your reply. I'm not looking to wipe the whole disk. Just unallocated space. I did run the command as admin. Would booting into safe mode first help?