Today, we rely on external hard drives to store and backup our valuable data. Nevertheless, they are open to data recovery problems despite being user-friendly. You should be happy if you have lost important files on your external hard drive. This article will help you return valuable information with Windows Recover data tools. So sit back and enjoy how to rescue those lost files.
Reasons for Data Loss on External Hard Drives
Additionally, external hard disks are prone to data loss no matter how much data they can hold. Physical harm, such as falling or exposing the drive to extreme temperatures that lead to file corruption and unreadable files, is one of the main reasons many people lose their information from external hard drives.
Human errors also lead to losing information. Unintentionally deleting files or formatting a drive without proper backup can result in irrevocable data loss. Similarly, power surges could affect the external hard drive and, hence, lose some files or cause others to become corrupted.
External hard drives are also prone to viruses and malware. The drive may become infected, compromising saved information and rendering it inaccessible. Periodically scanning the drive for any possible threats coupled with taking precautions against cyber criminals from attacking your precious details is therefore prudent.
Steps to Recover Data from an External Hard Drive
Do not worry! Follow these easy steps to recover the files that are so dear to you.
Step 1: Assess the extent of data loss
This is why it is essential to assess how much data has been lost on your external disk before starting any process of recovering it. These may include hearing strange sounds, receiving error reports from the computer, or files just disappearing.
Afterward, establish if your computer can detect the external hard drive. Ensure all cables are connected well and put them in different USB ports to avoid connection problems.
Review events that might have resulted in data loss, such as accidental deletion, formatting errors, or virus attacks. This information will help you decide on the most appropriate method to use for recovery of files you misplaced
If you cannot open specific folders or files stored on an external disc, any attempt at DIY solutions must be avoided since this could worsen the situation. If you find yourself in a complex situation involving data loss, it is always advisable to contact professionals who can help solve it.
Step 2: Choose the proper recovery software
To recover files from an external hard disk, someone must decide which recovery software to use. With so many online options, this can get very confusing.
Look for things like how user-friendly the software is, whether or not it supports your computer system (which in this case will be Windows), and what people who have used it previously say. Try to find programs that come with a trial version period or at least a demo so that you can evaluate their potential before spending on them.
In addition, you can choose a program compatible with a wide range of file types and have a success rate in restoring missing data. This way, you should pick out an application that supports its users whenever they face complications during retrieval.
Thus, giving yourself time to select the best recovery software may enable you to recover critical documents saved on your external hard disk.
Step 3: Connect and scan the external hard drive
After considering the amount of data lost and choosing the proper recovery software, let’s proceed to the next most important step in recovering your data from an external hard drive. Step 3: Connect and Scan The External Hard Drive.
To begin with, connect your external hard drive to your computer using a USB cable or any other relevant connecting method. Confirm that your system can recognize it before you can start scanning it.
Once connected, open the previously selected recovery program and click the “Start” button to initiate a full scan of the external hard disk. Depending on the size of the drive and the amount of information stored, this process may take some time, so you will have to wait until it finishes.
It allows the software to scan each sector of the external hard drive deeply to find all recoverable documents, including deleted ones or those lost when removed. When finished, carefully check out the files for recovery after an intelligent scanning.
This focuses on particular recoveries by reducing unnecessary information that floods back into your retrieved data. Once you have identified all necessary files for retrieval and marked them accordingly, securely restore them onto your PC or any other storage device for future reference.
Step 4: Preview and select the files to recover
Now that you have scanned the external hard disk and traced the lost files, it is time to preview their contents to select which ones you want to recover. The step is vital because it lets you see what is in the files before restoring them. Therefore, go through each file slowly and ensure you need it.
Previewing the files will enable you to determine their significance and pertinence. You can check whether they are corrupt or have been damaged before deciding if they should be restored. This helps you save time by only selecting files that need to be recovered.
Having carefully reviewed all of these files, choose which one suits your needs for recovery purposes. Choosing only essential data prevents your system from being flooded with unnecessary information. Remember, don’t just opt for everything unthinkingly; selective retrieval is better.
After choosing your desired files, recover all those chosen files from your external hard drive. Follow the recovery software prompts step by step as it retrieves your valuable data safely!
Step 5: Recover the selected files
However, there is a way to retrieve data from external hard drives without walking on the path of fire. You can achieve it, provided you have the right tools and follow the correct procedure. If you adhere to these steps, Windows data recovery software will help you regain your lost files and documents.
For that reason, ensure that important files are always backed up regularly to prevent similar cases. When confronted with data loss from your external hard drive again, do not worry; instead, use this guide to obtain your precious information again. Recovering lost data takes patience and a proper approach.
FAQs:
Q: What is Windows data recovery?
A: Windows data recovery is the process of retrieving lost or deleted files from a Windows-based external hard drive using specialized software.
Q: How can I recover Windows data on my external hard drive?
A: You can recover Windows data by connecting your external hard drive to your computer and using reliable data recovery software to scan and restore lost files.
Q: Which software is best for Windows data recovery?
A: The best software for Windows data recovery is user-friendly, supports multiple file types, and has a high success rate, such as EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard or Recuva.
Q: Is Windows data recovery effective for files lost due to virus attacks?
A: Windows data recovery software can effectively recover files lost due to virus attacks by scanning the drive for recoverable data.
Q: How long does Windows data recovery take?
A: The duration of Windows data recovery depends on the size of the external hard drive and the amount of data; it can range from a few minutes to several hours.
Q: What should I do before starting Windows data recovery?
A: Before starting Windows data recovery, assess the extent of data loss and ensure your external hard drive is properly connected and recognized by your computer.
Q: Is there a risk of further data loss during Windows data recovery?
A: While using reputable Windows data recovery software is generally safe, follow the instructions carefully to minimize the risk of further data loss.
