How to get back formatted data from hard disk?

I. How to Get Back Formatted Data from Hard Disk

Data loss due to hard disk formatting can be a catastrophic event, whether it’s a result of accidental formatting, a software glitch, or a malicious act. However, in many cases, it’s possible to recover the formatted data.

II.Hard Disk Formatting

What is hard disk formatting?

Formatting a hard disk is the process of preparing a storage device for data storage. There are two main types of formatting: quick format and full format. A quick format simply erases the file system information, such as the file allocation table (FAT) or the New Technology File System (NTFS) metadata. It makes the hard disk appear empty to the operating system, but the actual data may still be present on the disk sectors. A full format, on the other hand, not only erases the file system information but also scans the disk for bad sectors and overwrites each sector with zeros, making data recovery more difficult.

How data is stored on a hard disk

Data is stored on a hard disk in binary format, as a series of 0s and 1s. The hard disk is divided into sectors and tracks. Sectors are the smallest addressable units of storage, usually 512 bytes in size. The file system keeps track of where files are stored on these sectors. When a file is saved, the file system records the starting sector and the number of sectors occupied by the file. Even after formatting, the data bits may still reside on the physical sectors of the disk until they are overwritten.

III. When Data Recovery is Possible

Quick Format Scenario

In the case of a quick format, the chances of data recovery are relatively high. As mentioned earlier, a quick format only erases the file system metadata. The actual data content of the files remains on the disk. As long as the data has not been overwritten by new data, it can be recovered. For example, if you quickly formatted a hard disk and then realized your mistake and immediately stopped using the disk to prevent any new writes, the probability of successful data recovery is quite good.

Partial Overwrite Scenario

Even if some new data has been written to the disk after formatting, it’s still possible to recover some of the original formatted data. Data recovery software can often identify and salvage the parts of the disk that have not been overwritten. However, the more new data that has been written, the lower the chances of full data recovery.

IV. Precautions Before Data Recovery

Stop Using the Disk Immediately

Once you realize that you need to recover data from a formatted hard disk, it’s crucial to stop using the disk as soon as possible. Any new write operations to the disk can overwrite the existing data, reducing the chances of successful recovery. If the disk is an internal hard drive, it’s best to power off the computer. If it’s an external hard drive, unplug it from the computer.

Backup Any Existing Data (if possible)

If the hard disk contains some data that you have access to and want to keep safe during the recovery process, it’s a good idea to back it up. For example, if there are some files on other partitions of the hard disk that are not affected by the formatting of a particular partition, copy these files to another storage device.

V. Data Recovery Methods

A. Using Data Recovery Software

Panda Assistant is an advanced data recovery solution designed to help individuals and businesses retrieve lost or inaccessible files with ease. Whether it’s accidentally deleted documents, photos from a formatted SD card, or crucial data lost due to system crashes, Panda Assistant provides a reliable way to recover your files efficiently. Its intuitive interface ensures that even users with minimal technical expertise can navigate the recovery process without hassle.

Supporting a wide range of devices, including hard drives, USB drives, SD cards, and more, Panda Assistant is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. The software utilizes advanced scanning algorithms to locate and restore data, ensuring a high recovery success rate. Additionally, Panda Assistant supports multiple file types, from images and videos to documents and archives, making it a versatile tool for various recovery needs.

One of its standout features is its preview functionality, allowing users to view recoverable files before initiating restoration. This ensures you can selectively recover only the files you need, saving time and storage space. With its emphasis on security and privacy, Panda Assistant ensures that your recovered data remains confidential throughout the process.

B. Professional Data Recovery Services

When to Consider Professional Services

If the data on the formatted hard disk is extremely important and the DIY data recovery methods using software have failed, or if the hard disk is physically damaged (such as having a clicking noise, which may indicate a mechanical failure), it’s time to consider professional data recovery services. Professional data recovery companies have specialized equipment and clean room facilities to handle physically damaged hard disks.

What Professional Data Recovery Services Offer

Physical Repair: They can repair damaged hard disk components, such as the read – write head or the motor. For example, if the read – write head of a hard disk is damaged due to a sudden impact, the professionals can replace it in a clean room environment to prevent further damage from dust particles.

Data Extraction: They use advanced data recovery tools and techniques to extract data from the formatted or damaged hard disk. These tools can often recover data even in cases where the file system is severely corrupted or the disk has been formatted multiple times.

Data Reconstruction: In some cases, the recovered data may be fragmented or incomplete. Professional services can reconstruct the data to make it usable. For example, they can piece together fragments of a video file to create a playable video.

How to Choose a Professional Data Recovery Service

Reputation: Look for a service with a good reputation. Check online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. A company with a high success rate and positive customer feedback is more likely to provide reliable service.

Certifications: Ensure that the company has relevant certifications, such as ISO certifications for data security and quality management. These certifications indicate that the company adheres to industry – standard practices.

Cost: Get quotes from multiple services and compare the costs. However, be cautious of services that offer extremely low prices, as they may not have the necessary expertise or equipment to handle complex data recovery cases.

VI. Tips for Successful Data Recovery

Keep the Original Disk in a Safe Place

After you have started the data recovery process, whether using software or professional services, keep the original formatted hard disk in a safe and static – free environment. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, humidity, or magnetic fields, as these can further damage the disk and the data stored on it.

Regularly Backup Your Data

To avoid the need for data recovery in the future, it’s essential to regularly backup your data. You can use external hard drives, cloud storage services, or a combination of both. For example, set up an automatic backup schedule to backup your important files to an external hard drive every week and to a cloud storage service every month.