A Microsoft Surface Data Eraser USB stick requires only the ability to boot from USB. The USB tool is easy to create by using the provided wizard, the Microsoft Surface Data Eraser Wrapper, and is easy to use with a simple graphic interface, no command line needed. To learn more about the data wiping capabilities and practices Microsoft uses during the service process for Surface, see Protecting your data if you send your Surface in for service.

Compatible Surface devices include:

  • Surface Book 2
  • Surface Pro with LTE Advanced (Model 1807)
  • Surface Pro (Model 1796)
  • Surface Laptop
  • Surface Studio
  • Surface Book
  • Surface Pro 4
  • Surface 3 LTE
  • Surface 3
  • Surface Pro 3
  • Surface Pro 2

Some scenarios where Microsoft Surface Data Eraser can be helpful include:

  • Prepare a Surface device to be sent for repair
  • Decommission a Surface device to be removed from corporate or organizational use
  • Repurpose a Surface device for use in a new department or for use by a new user
  • Standard practice when performing reimaging for devices used with sensitive data