Data File Recovery
In cases where no backup was done and a data file recovery is needed then there are various options depending upon exactly how the data loss has occurred. Don't despair though it is possible to retrieve information even if the hard disk cannot be read by your computer, as experts can use specialised tools to read the data of the disk.
Accidental deletion of the file by the user
The deleted file is in the recycle bin
In windows there may be a very simple answer to this question. When a file is deleted in windows it is normally put in the recycle bin. The recycle bin usually resides on the desktop. Here are the steps to find your file, these are specifically for windows vista but should be similar in Xp and windows 7:
- Double click on the recycle bin
- Find the file you are looking for
- Right click on the file and select restore
- The file should now be where it was originally deleted from
The deleted file is not in the recycle bin
If the file is not present in the recycle bin it is still possible to potentially restore the file, as when you delete a file the information is not deleted only the index to it, so unless it was over written by another newer file it may still be there. This is why it is essential to stop saving more data on the machine in question to heighten the chances that a recovery will be successful. There are various applications to help you to recover a file from deletion they include Recuva, this will scan your computer for deleted files, and if you are fortunate you will be able to locate your file and bring it back. It may be that the file is not fully brought back but only a part of it.
The hard disk was damaged and cannot be read from
Data file recovery is more tricky in this case, as the hard disk must be sent off to specialists who are expert in recovering data from damaged hard disks, note though that this solution can get to be expensive. datlabs is an example to illustrate a provider, and is in no way an endorsement of their products.
When you send your hard disk to these companies what they generally should do is:
- Visual inspection using a microscope of the damage
- Contamination is removed and drive heads are aligned correctly
- Inspection of power, motor, servo circuits and interfaces
- Repairing of any faulty electronic components found
- Potential relocation of the disk platters to another disk drive if required
- Alignment checks with calibration
- Magnetic media inspection is done
- Read write checks
- Once the drive is operational again, the data is extracted and should be stored in a secure fashion