Gutmann method

proper noun

An algorithm for securely erasing the contents of a hard drive by writing a number of different patterns over the existing data.

Meanings

proper noun
  1. computingAn algorithm for securely erasing the contents of a hard drive by writing a number of different patterns over the existing data.

Origin

Devised by Peter Gutmann and Colin Plumb.

Full word history & related roots →
Cite this entry
APA

Gutmann method. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Gutmann%20method

MLA

“Gutmann method.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Gutmann%20method. Accessed November 3, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “Gutmann method,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Gutmann%20method.

Source: Gutmann method on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.