Data Recovery Services
Read this first!
If you have lost/deleted important files from your Windows based PC, the MOST IMPORTANT FIRST STEP is to STOP using the PC!
While the information contained in deleted files is still technically on your hard disk, Windows has labeled the area that the information resides on as "free space". Any new files/pictures/software can over-write the data area where your deleted information is residing, and then the information is typically lost forever...
If you have lost/deleted important files from your Windows based PC, the MOST IMPORTANT FIRST STEP is to STOP using the PC!While the information contained in deleted files is still technically on your hard disk, Windows has labeled the area that the information resides on as "free space". Any new files/pictures/software can over-write the data area where your deleted information is residing, and then the information is typically lost forever...
Basically your data recovery options fall into one of three scenarios:
a) User has deleted files, or files seem to have disappeared
b) PC does not boot because of missing or corrupt system files
c) PC does not boot up because of a corrupted, dead, or clicking (see "failing HD video" on the sidebar) hard disk
In the first case when the PC boots correctly but data appears to be lost (or accidently deleted), you have several options:
a) You could try and restore the data by purchasing data recovery software. Most recovery software manufacturers will let you download a free copy that will let you "see" how many files MAY be recovered. In order to do the actual recovery, you will have to purchase a license or a full version of the software. Be warned that since you are installing software onto the hard drive, you may be over-writing valuable information on the hard drive. This could lessen the chances of recovering your lost data.
b) Use specialized software tools which will allow you to boot into a Windows like environment on your PC and recover user data files. HNOS recommends (and uses) this option, as there is little chance of your data being over-written.
In the second case (PC not booting), you again have several options:
a) You could try and restore the system files by booting the Windows setup CD and use one of the recovery options. Be warned that it is very easy to over-write the existing information on the hard drive by choosing to install a fresh copy of Windows. This will completely over-write (destroy) any user data on the hard disk!!!
b) Use specialized software tools which will allow you to boot into a Windows like environment on your PC and recover user data files. Then try and restore the system files by booting the Windows setup CD and using one of the recovery options.
And in the final (worst-case) scenario, a corrupted or dead hard disk, you will not have many options here since you're probably dealing with a hardware malfunction. Either the motor won't spin or the heads can no longer read data. Your only real hope is to send the failing hard disk to a specialized data recovery centre where they will attempt to read your data with sophisticated tools.
HNOS can attempt to recover your data (on a time and materials basis) or assist you sending your failed drive to a Data Recovery Service for an estimate. Please call 613-968-0840 or email info@hnos.ca for further information.
a) User has deleted files, or files seem to have disappeared
b) PC does not boot because of missing or corrupt system files
c) PC does not boot up because of a corrupted, dead, or clicking (see "failing HD video" on the sidebar) hard disk
In the first case when the PC boots correctly but data appears to be lost (or accidently deleted), you have several options:
a) You could try and restore the data by purchasing data recovery software. Most recovery software manufacturers will let you download a free copy that will let you "see" how many files MAY be recovered. In order to do the actual recovery, you will have to purchase a license or a full version of the software. Be warned that since you are installing software onto the hard drive, you may be over-writing valuable information on the hard drive. This could lessen the chances of recovering your lost data.
b) Use specialized software tools which will allow you to boot into a Windows like environment on your PC and recover user data files. HNOS recommends (and uses) this option, as there is little chance of your data being over-written.
In the second case (PC not booting), you again have several options:
a) You could try and restore the system files by booting the Windows setup CD and use one of the recovery options. Be warned that it is very easy to over-write the existing information on the hard drive by choosing to install a fresh copy of Windows. This will completely over-write (destroy) any user data on the hard disk!!!
b) Use specialized software tools which will allow you to boot into a Windows like environment on your PC and recover user data files. Then try and restore the system files by booting the Windows setup CD and using one of the recovery options.
And in the final (worst-case) scenario, a corrupted or dead hard disk, you will not have many options here since you're probably dealing with a hardware malfunction. Either the motor won't spin or the heads can no longer read data. Your only real hope is to send the failing hard disk to a specialized data recovery centre where they will attempt to read your data with sophisticated tools.
HNOS can attempt to recover your data (on a time and materials basis) or assist you sending your failed drive to a Data Recovery Service for an estimate. Please call 613-968-0840 or email info@hnos.ca for further information.
