What is Data Recovery?
Data recovery basically comprises of retrieving lost, inaccessible, corrupted, or accidentally deleted data from storage devices like hard drives, USB flash, SSDs, drives, memory cards, or even cloud storage. The main aim is to recover Important files that were not properly backed up or were lost due to unexpected issues.
Common Causes that Lead to Data Loss:
Understanding Data loss reasons helps us prevent it and know when recovery is required. Some of the most common causes are:
a) Accidental Deletion:
Deletion of important files or formatting a device by mistake is one of the main reasons for data loss.
b) Hardware Failure:
Hardware failures are generally due to wear and tear, power surges, overheating, or manufacturing defects.
c) Software Corruption:
System crashes, operations, file system corruption, or software updates failure can lead to inaccessible data.
d) Viruses and Malware
Malicious software can lead to deletion, encryption(like ransomware), or corruption of your files.
e) Human Error
Mishandling devices or unplugging them improperly can damage files or the storage medium.
f) Natural Disasters:
Floods, fires, and other disasters can damage hardware and cause severe data loss.
DATA RECOVERY PROCESS:
The process of data recovery depends on the type of data loss and the storage device condition.
Basic Data Recovery Processes:
The following are the basic methods:
1. Software Recovery Tools:
Used for logical damage (e.g., deleted files, formatted drives). These tools, like PC 3000, scan the device for recoverable data that hasn’t been overwritten.
2. Professional Data Recovery Centres:
For physical damage (e.g., failed hard drives), these professional data recovery experts generally use specialised equipment in clean rooms to retrieve data that has been lost.
3. Backup Restoration
Backed-up data recovery is as simple as restoring the lost data from the backup.
Data Recovery Depends on
The probability of Data recovery of lost data depends upon:
1. Reason for Data Loss
2. Data overwritten:
Whether the device has been used again after the loss, which might lead to overwritten data.
3. The type of damage (logical vs. physical)
Prevention of Data Loss can be done by
● Regular Backups:
external drives or cloud storage can be used
● Install Antivirus Software :
Prevents data loss from malfunctions.
● By Avoiding Physical Damage :
Handling devices carefully.
● Be Cautious with Formatting :
Always double-check before cleaning the drives.
Conclusion
Therefore, Data recovery can be a lifesaver when important files are lost, but it’s not always guaranteed. Prevention through regular backups and careful handling is the best defence. For beginners, understanding the basics of data loss and recovery can help reduce panic and lead to better decisions when data loss happens.
