Recover deleted files from external hard drive​

I. Recovering Deleted Files from an External Hard Drive

External hard drives are a convenient way to store large amounts of data, including documents, photos, videos, and music. However, it’s not uncommon for files to be accidentally deleted. This can be a nightmare, especially if the data is important. Fortunately, in many cases, it’s possible to recover these deleted files.

II. File Deletion

When a file is deleted from an external hard drive, it’s not actually removed from the physical storage immediately. Instead, the file system marks the space occupied by the file as available for reuse. The file’s entry in the file allocation table or the metadata that points to the file’s location on the drive is removed or updated. For example, in a FAT32 file system, the directory entry for the file is marked as deleted. In NTFS, the Master File Table (MFT) entry for the file is updated to indicate that the file is no longer in use.

The data of the deleted file remains on the drive until it’s overwritten by new data. This means that the sooner you attempt to recover the file after deletion, the higher the chances of success. If you continue to use the external hard drive and write new data to it, the likelihood of the deleted file’s data being overwritten increases.

III. Reasons for File Deletion

Accidental Deletion: This is the most common reason. Users may accidentally select the wrong files and press the delete button. For example, in a rush to clear up space, a user might delete a folder containing important documents instead of an unwanted one.

Virus or Malware Attacks: Malicious software can delete files. Some viruses are designed to corrupt or delete data as part of their malicious activities. For instance, ransomware not only encrypts files but can also delete the original, unencrypted copies.

File System Corruption: If the file system of the external hard drive becomes corrupted, it can lead to data loss. This can happen due to improper ejection of the drive, power outages during data transfer, or physical damage to the drive.

IV. Precautions Before Recovery

Stop Using the Drive Immediately: As soon as you realize that important files have been deleted, stop using the external hard drive. Any new data written to the drive increases the risk of overwriting the deleted files.

Backup the Drive (If Possible): If you have the means to make a bit – by – bit backup of the external hard drive, it’s a good idea. This backup can be used in case the recovery process goes wrong or further damage occurs to the drive during recovery. However, be careful when making the backup, as it can also potentially overwrite the deleted files if not done correctly.

V. Methods of File Recovery

A. Using Built – in Operating System Tools

Windows:

Previous Versions: In Windows, if System Restore is enabled and you have created restore points, you may be able to access previous versions of files. Right – click on the folder where the deleted file was located and select “Restore previous versions.” Windows keeps track of changes to files and folders and may have a copy of the deleted file in an earlier state.

Recycle Bin: If the file was deleted from an external hard drive that is connected to a Windows computer and the drive is configured to send deleted files to the Recycle Bin, you can simply open the Recycle Bin and restore the file. However, if the Recycle Bin option was disabled for the external drive or the file was deleted using a “Shift + Delete” combination, this method won’t work.

Mac:

Time Machine: Mac’s Time Machine is a backup utility. If you have been using Time Machine to back up your external hard drive, you can restore deleted files. Connect the external hard drive to the Mac, open Time Machine, and navigate through the backup history to find the file you want to recover.

B. Third – Party File Recovery Software

Panda Assistant uses advanced scanning algorithms that scan storage devices thoroughly to detect and recover lost files. It’s designed to handle various types of data loss scenarios, such as accidental deletion, formatting, partition loss, and corruption. The software can also recover files from damaged or unreadable drives, which is crucial in situations where physical damage has occurred to a storage device.

The program is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It supports an extensive list of file formats, ensuring that all types of data documents, photos, videos, emails, and more can be recovered. Whether you’re recovering office files, multimedia content, or system data, Panda Assistant is designed to meet diverse data recovery needs.

VI. Special Considerations for Different File Systems

FAT32:

FAT32 is an older file system that is still widely used. It has a relatively simple structure. File recovery on FAT32 can be more straightforward in some cases because of its simplicity. However, it also has limitations, such as a maximum file size of 4GB. When recovering files from a FAT32 – formatted external hard drive, the software may need to handle the file allocation table (FAT) carefully to ensure accurate recovery.

NTFS:

NTFS is a more advanced file system used in Windows operating systems. It has features like journaling, which helps in maintaining data integrity. Recovering files from an NTFS – formatted external hard drive may involve working with the Master File Table (MFT). The MFT contains important metadata about each file, and understanding how to access and interpret this information is crucial for successful file recovery.

exFAT:

exFAT is designed for use with external storage devices, especially those with large capacities. It’s a more modern alternative to FAT32. File recovery software needs to be aware of the unique characteristics of exFAT, such as its support for very large files and its more efficient allocation of disk space.

VII. Dealing with Damaged or Failing Drives

If the external hard drive is physically damaged, such as having a clicking sound (which could indicate a problem with the read – write head) or not being recognized by the computer, recovery becomes more complicated.

Professional Data Recovery Services: In such cases, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Data recovery services have specialized equipment and clean rooms to handle physically damaged drives. They can open the drive in a controlled environment to replace damaged parts like the read – write head or the motor. However, these services can be expensive and may not guarantee 100% recovery of all data.

DIY Physical Repair (Not Recommended for Most Users): Some technically – inclined users may attempt to repair the drive themselves. This is a very risky process, as opening the hard drive outside of a clean room environment can introduce dust and other contaminants that can further damage the drive’s internal components.