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How to Recover Data from a Crashed Hard Drive?

Learn how to recover data from a crashed hard drive with simple steps. Follow our guide to retrieve lost files and restore access to your important data safely.
Eleanor Reed
Eleanor Reed Originally published Aug 22, 24, updated Nov 16, 24

A hard disk disaster might be disastrous enough, but it can be much worse if important data is lost. A failed drive causes users to panic over lost files, regardless of whether the hard drive fails as a consequence of physical damage or file system corruption from a virus. Nonetheless, crashed hard drive recovery is often not too difficult to accomplish.

This article will show you how to recover data from a failing hard drive, identify the most frequent reasons for crashes, and provide advice on how to prevent them. Let's get started and learn how to restore your system and recover data from a crahsed hard drive.

In this article

Part 1: Is It Possible to Retrieve Data from a Corrupted Hard drive?

recover data from a corrupted hard drive

The first thing that comes to mind after a hard drive crash is whether the data can be recovered. Fortunately, data recovery is often possible, depending on the type of crash. To assess the possibility of recovery, it’s important to understand the nature of the crash.

Hard drive failures can be caused by mechanical issues or software problems, which are quite common. The type of failure will influence how likely recovery is.

🔌Physical Damage:

Recovery becomes more challenging if the hard drive suffers physical damage, such as a broken read/write head. In such cases, professional data recovery services are often required, as they have the specialized equipment needed for the job.

💻Logical Errors:

These include file system corruption, bad sectors, and virus attacks. Recovery from these issues is generally easier and can be handled with advanced software solutions.

🚨Firmware Failures:

Sometimes, crashes are caused by problems with the firmware that controls the hard drive. In these cases, recovery may be complex and could require additional software or professional help.

In what circumstances should one consult a specialist?

Physical deterioration of a hard disk is often indicated by clicking, grinding, or other noises, and attempting data recovery can worsen this condition. Therefore, it is advisable to seek professional help from a data recovery company.

Part 2: How to restore data from corrupted hard drive using Wondershare Recoverit?

Has your hard drive crashed and taken your precious files with it? Don't worry, Wondershare Recoverit is here to save the day by doing corrupted hard disk recovery!

Here's how it works:

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Step 1: Download and Install: Get Wondershare Recoverit on your working computer. It's easy to download and install.

recover data from a crashed hard drive

Step 2: Connect Your Hard Drive. Safely connect your crashed hard drive to your computer.

Step 3: Select the problematic hard drive from the list. Select the crashed hard drive from the list available so that the scanning can begin.

recover data after quick format

Step 4: Scan Your Drive: Let Recoverit scan your hard drive for lost files. This might take some time, so grab a cup of coffee.

Step 5: Preview and Recover: Once the scan is complete, you can preview your recoverable files. Choose the ones you want and click "Recover." Make sure to save them to a different drive to avoid overwriting.

recover data after quick format

That's it! Wondershare Recoverit uses advanced technology to find and recover your lost data, even from severely damaged hard drives.

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Part 3: Common causes for a hard disk to crash

Knowledge of the most frequent causes of a hard drive crash will assist you in avoiding future loss of data. Here are some of the most frequent culprits. Here are some of the most frequent culprits:

1. Physical Damage

Hard disks have a weakness, and impacts are some of the leading causes of the disk failures. Anything that triggers a fall, a jolt or exposure to high heat ultimately results in a crash. To avoid this, you should be very careful with the hard drive, and store it in a proper condition.

2. Power Surges

In most situations, forcing cutoffs or abrupt light switch on/off will result in a hard drive crash because the internal components of the drive will be harmed. Using an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) or surge protector will protect your hardware.

3. Malware and Viruses

Malware, including viruses, can corrupt or even completely remove system files that are essential to a hard drive's operation. Make sure your antivirus program is current, and exercise caution while downloading files from unidentified sites.

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antivirus shield

4. Overheating

This can cause mechanical breakdown in a hard drive and results in crashes of the hard drive. Check that your computer has proper ventilation and clean the inside of the case to minimize the amount of dust that gathers.

5. Software Corruption

Random issues like operating system errors, sudden shutdowns, or software glitches can damage the hard drive’s file system and cause it to crash. It is pertinent that the software you are using is the latest version and turn off your computer appropriately.

6. Firmware Failures

Firmware on the other hand is an operating software for the hard drive. If corrupted or outdated, the hard drive may crash and be inoperable and that’s why it is often recommended to back files stored in the hard drive. Upgrade your firmware to the most current release as posted by the product manufacturer.

recover data from crashed hard drive

Conclusion

Your data files don't have to be lost in the event of a hard drive failure. The truth is that, with the right resources and expertise, data can usually be restored from a destroyed hard drive. Regardless, in order to recover the deleted files, it is important to identify the cause of the crash and take the appropriate action to fix crashed hard drive or recover files from hard drive. Remember to make a copy of the data you have retrieved, and exercise caution to avoid running into the same issue again. Crash hard drive recovery is a reality, but one should always keep in mind that prevention is always preferable to treatment.

Try Wondershare Recoverit to Recover Your Vital Data

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FAQ

  • Q1: Is it possible to restore the data from a physically damaged hard drive?
    A1: Yes, but it’s challenging. Physical damage mostly has to be returned to the professional recovery services since they possess requisite equipment and contamination free enclosures for repair.
  • Q2: Can I risk my data by downloading a free data recovery software?
    A2: Some free data recovery apps work well, but they might limit how much data you can recover. If the recovery is more intense, then it would be better to discover the paid software with better functions.
  • Q3: What measures can be taken to avoid a hard drive crash?
    A3: Regularly backup your files, avoid dropping or hitting your computer, use surge protectors, install antivirus software, and keep your system cool and updated to prevent hard drive failures in the future.
  • Q4: What can I do if my hard drive is failing and is emitting clicking sounds?
    A4: For effective troubleshooting, cease utilizing the hard drive as soon as you notice a problem with it. Rattles and similar sounds tend to point to physical harm, and if utilized, the issue may just expand. When the situation is that dire, then one should consider hiring the services of a professional recovery agency.
  • Q5: How often should I backup my data?
    A5: As for the data, it is advisable to make its copies as often as is necessary, based on the frequency of file modification or appearance. It is recommended to make backups at least on a weekly basis or when big changes are made. Recover your important data by following the above steps within seconds and prevent crashing of Hard disks in the future.
Eleanor Reed
Eleanor Reed Nov 16, 24
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