How to recover files from corrupted usb drive​?

Recovering files from a corrupted USB drive can be a complex process, but there are several methods and tools available that can help.

Causes of Corruption

Physical Damage: This can occur due to drops, impacts, or exposure to moisture. For example, if a USB drive is accidentally dropped on the floor, the internal components might get damaged, leading to data corruption.

Improper Ejection: When a USB drive is not safely ejected from a computer but rather unplugged abruptly, it can cause file system errors and corruption.

Virus or Malware Attacks: Malicious software can infect the USB drive, corrupting files or even deleting them.

Power Surges: Sudden changes in power supply when the USB drive is connected to a computer can damage the drive’s circuitry and corrupt data.

Signs of a Corrupted USB Drive

Drive Not Recognized: The computer may not detect the USB drive when it’s plugged in. This could be due to hardware damage or corrupted firmware.

File Access Errors: When trying to open files on the USB drive, you may encounter error messages like “File cannot be read” or “Access is denied”.

Slow Performance: If the USB drive takes an unusually long time to transfer files or respond to commands, it could be a sign of corruption.

Strange File Behavior: Files may appear to be missing, have incorrect sizes, or have garbled names.

Precautions Before Recovery

Stop Using the USB Drive: As soon as you suspect corruption, stop using the drive immediately. Continuing to use it may cause further damage and make data recovery more difficult.

Avoid Writing to the Drive: Do not save any new files to the USB drive or try to format it. Writing new data can overwrite the existing corrupted data, reducing the chances of successful recovery.

Backup Any Recovered Data: Once you start the recovery process and manage to recover some files, make sure to backup those files to another storage device immediately.

Methods to Recover Files from a Corrupted USB Drive

Method 1: Use Built-in Windows Tools

CHKDSK Utility: CHKDSK (Check Disk) is a Windows utility that can check the file system and recover corrupted files. To use it, follow these steps:

Plug in the USB drive to your Windows computer.

Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by searching for “Command Prompt” in the Start menu, right-clicking on it, and selecting “Run as administrator”.

In the Command Prompt, type “chkdsk X: /f” where “X” is the drive letter of your USB drive. For example, if your USB drive is assigned the letter “E”, you would type “chkdsk E: /f”.

Press Enter and wait for the process to complete. CHKDSK will scan the USB drive for errors and attempt to fix them.

System File Checker: The System File Checker (SFC) can also be used to repair corrupted system files that may be causing issues with the USB drive. Here’s how:

Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter. This will scan all protected system files and replace corrupted files with a cached copy.

Method 2: Use Third-Party Data Recovery Software

Panda Assistant also boasts an efficient recovery process, allowing users to quickly scan and preview recoverable files before committing to the restoration process. This feature ensures that only the desired files are recovered, saving time and storage space.

Additionally, Panda Assistant provides a straightforward step-by-step guide, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users. The software is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring versatility across different platforms.

With its strong recovery capabilities, ease of use, and ability to handle complex data loss scenarios, Panda Assistant is a reliable tool for anyone facing data loss challenges. Whether you’re recovering from a system failure, accidental deletion, or drive corruption, Panda Assistant offers an efficient solution to get your data back.

Method 3: Linux-Based Recovery

TestDisk: TestDisk is a powerful data recovery tool available for Linux. Here’s a basic guide on using it:

Install TestDisk on your Linux system. You can usually do this using the package manager of your Linux distribution.

Plug in the USB drive and identify its device name. You can use the “lsblk” command to list all block devices and find the USB drive.

Run TestDisk by typing “testdisk” in the terminal.

Select the USB drive device and choose the appropriate partition table type.

Follow the on-screen prompts to analyze the drive and search for lost partitions and files. TestDisk will attempt to rebuild the partition table and recover the files.

PhotoRec: PhotoRec is another Linux tool that can be used to recover various file types from a corrupted USB drive. The process is similar to TestDisk:

Install PhotoRec on your Linux system.

Identify the USB drive device using “lsblk”.

Run PhotoRec and select the USB drive as the source.

Choose the file types you want to recover and the destination folder. PhotoRec will then start recovering the files.

Method 4: Seek Professional Data Recovery Services

When to Consider Professional Services: If the above methods do not work or if the data on the USB drive is extremely important, it may be time to consider professional data recovery services. This is especially recommended if the USB drive has physical damage or if the data is critical for business or personal reasons.

Choosing a Professional Service: Look for a reputable data recovery company with experienced technicians and state-of-the-art facilities. Read reviews and ask for recommendations. Some well-known data recovery companies have clean rooms where they can safely open and repair physically damaged drives.

Tips to Prevent USB Drive Corruption

Use Safe Ejection: Always use the “Safely Remove Hardware” option in Windows or the equivalent in other operating systems before unplugging the USB drive.

Keep Antivirus Software Updated: Regularly update your antivirus and antimalware software to protect your USB drive from infections.

Handle with Care: Avoid dropping or exposing the USB drive to extreme temperatures or moisture.

Regularly Backup Data: Don’t rely solely on the USB drive for data storage. Regularly backup your important files to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or other media.