What is sdel Linux command?

The sdel command in Linux is used to securely delete files and directories by overwriting them multiple times to prevent data recovery. It helps protect sensitive information from being accessed by unauthorized users.

sdel Syntax:

sdel [options] [file/directory]

sdel Options:

Option	Description
-r	Recursively delete
-f	Force delete (no prompts)
-v	Verbose mode (show details)
-h	Help (display usage information)

Caution

Exercise caution while using the sdel command as it permanently deletes files and directories without moving them to the trash. Double-check the provided parameters to prevent accidental loss of important data.

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
file/directory	The file or directory to be deleted.

sdel Command Usage Examples:

Delete a Single File

sdel file.txt

Deletes the file named “file.txt”.

Purge a Directory Recursively

sdel -r directory

Removes all files and subdirectories in the specified directory recursively.

Delete Multiple Files

sdel file1.txt file2.txt file3.txt

Deletes multiple files named “file1.txt”, “file2.txt”, and “file3.txt”.

Securely Delete a File

sdel -s confidential.txt

Overwrites the content of the file “confidential.txt” before deleting it, making it unrecoverable.

Empty Trash Can

sdel -t

Permanently deletes all files in the trash can, instead of moving them to the trash directory.

Tip

When using the sdel command in Linux, make sure to carefully read the command options and their respective values to avoid unintended data deletion or irreversible actions.

How do I use sdel in Linux?

To use the sdel command in bash, execute the following command:

sdel --option <value>

What are the available options with the sdel command?

The sdel command in Linux offers various options for secure file deletion. You can explore these options by typing:

sdel --help

How can I securely delete a specific file using sdel?

To securely delete a specific file with sdel, use the following command format:

sdel --file <filename>

Can I use sdel to delete multiple files at once?

Yes, you can delete multiple files at once using sdel in Linux by providing a list of filenames as arguments. Here is an example:

sdel --file file1.txt file2.txt file3.txt

How can I securely delete a directory with sdel?

To securely delete a directory and its contents with sdel, use the following command format:

sdel --dir <directory_path>

Is there a way to verify the secure deletion process with sdel?

You can enable the verification option to confirm the secure deletion process with sdel. Include the --verify flag in your command like this:

sdel --file <filename> --verify

How do I change the number of overwrites for secure deletion in sdel?

To set a specific number of overwrites for secure deletion in sdel, you can use the --repeats option followed by the desired number. Here is an example:

sdel --file <filename> --repeats 10

Can I force the deletion of files without any confirmation using sdel?

If you want to force the deletion of files without any confirmation prompts, you can use the --force option in your sdel command. For example:

sdel --file <filename> --force

Applications of the sdel command

• Securely delete files or directories
• Shred sensitive information before disk disposal or sharing
• Ensure that deleted data cannot be recovered through file recovery tools