This guide walks you through the problems that you might encounter and proposes a solution for you. We start from simple to complex errors.
Common Problem Encountered
Understanding the problem can help in choosing a suitable recovery method. The most common causes include:
- Intermittent disconnection (Read Point 4)
- Deleting files by mistake (Read points 1,2, and 3)
- Accidentally formatting a drive (Read Points 2 and 3)
- Prompted error (Read points 3 and 5)
- Corrupted or damaged partition (Read point 6)
- Hardware or mechanical failure (Read point 7)
Methods to Recover Data on a Hard Drive
1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash
If files were recently deleted, they may have been moved to the Recycle Bin. Restoring them is often as simple as a copy and paste.
2. Use Backup and Restore Features
Most operating systems include built-in backup tools:
- Windows: File History or Backup & Restore
- Mac: Time Machine
These can restore files if backups were previously set up.
3. Try Data Recovery Software
When you hold no backups, recovery software might help you. 2 tools are suggested below:
- Recuva (Free). If it failed, try another free software from step 6. Click here for a step-by-step guide(Preparing). Or
- R-Studio (Chargeable) is a very powerful tool used by many repair centres. Click here for a step-by-step guide(Preparing).
4. Check External Connections
For external hard drives, sometimes the issue is not with the drive itself but with the connection. Try:
- Switching to another USB port or cable
- Connecting to a different computer
- Using a new enclosure or docking station
5. Run Repair Utilities
If the drive is detected but inaccessible, system tools may help:
- Windows
- Run chkdsk /f /r X: (replace X with your drive letter). This method allows you to recover your data. Click here for step-by-step guides.
These tools can repair file system errors, though results may vary.
6. Repair Damaged Partitions Using Software
If step 3 fails, or, you can see your drive in Windows' Disk Management but it does not appear in File Explorer, it may be caused by a corrupted partition. These steps can apply if you encountered below error:
i. You need to format the disk in drive X: before you can use it
ii. The volume does not contain a recognized file system
iii. Invalid media type (in CHKDSK or Disk Management)
iv. RAW Partition in Disk Management
v. Missing partition/Unallocated space
vi. Wrong partition size/drive letter issues
Download TestDisk software. It is a free software that can help rebuild partitions and restore access to files, or recover data. Click here for a step-by-step guide(Preparing).
7. Professional Data Recovery Services
When all other options fail, and your heard abnormal noises from your drive such as clicking or scratching, it may be a sign of physical damage. You may consider replacing your hard drive if you no longer need any data.
If you need your data, do not open or repair the drive physically without experience, proper equipment, and environment. It is risky and may cause permanent loss.
Seek help from a professional data recovery centre to retrieve your data. While this is often the most expensive solution, it is also the most reliable for retrieving data from drives with serious damage. Feel free to contact our data recovery team for advice.
