Does overwriting files wear down the HD

[rodsmith]

Do you think file wiping programs, with say 7 passes, will significantly reduce the life of a harddisk ? I want to remove data securely, but i also don't want to have my hard drive die prematurely.

[Monty007]

For the average user 7 passes is a bit over the top but will not impact on your drive as such. Like all components of your PC, keep it clean...keep it cool!

[Greywolf]

Modern disks are fairly reliable and shouldn't be affected by a software program unless it's a virus or trojan. All hard disks have a finite life but I am still using a 20Gb Seagate after 5 years and many wipes/re-installs so don't worry! If a disk is going to fail it usually is down to it's reliability or manufacture.