A Closer Look At The Data Recovery Process
You've probably been there –– you delete an important file, and suddenly, panic sets in. Have no fear! With the right tools and processes, data recovery is possible.
Take a closer look at this process so you can be better prepared if the unthinkable happens.
Data Recovery Steps
Data recovery involves three main steps — identification, extraction, and restoration. First, you have to identify which files were lost or deleted to determine which ones need to be recovered and in what order.
Usually, this means using specialized software to scan the hard drive for any lost or deleted files. Hard drives always leave traces of deleted data, which can be used to begin the recovery process. So even if you delete a file on purpose, there'll still be some evidence of its existence on the hard drive.
The second step is extraction. This involves using data recovery software to extract the found files from the hard drive. This step can be tricky and time-consuming, as it requires you to identify exactly where on the hard drive each file was stored and how much of it is still recoverable. Data recovery professionals can help with this step, especially if data has been lost due to a hardware failure.
The last step is restoration. This part involves restoring the data back to its original form and putting it back in its original location. Professionals often use specialized software to copy the recovered data onto another device, such as a USB flash drive or an external hard drive.
How Complex Is the Recovery Process?
The complexity of data recovery depends on several factors, including what type of storage device was used (hard drive, flash drive, etc.), how much data needs to be recovered (some programs are limited to only recovering a few megabytes of data), and how long ago the data was lost/deleted (older data may be harder to recover).
Also, keep in mind that not all types of data are recoverable. Some files, such as those encrypted with certain types of encryption algorithms, may not be easily recoverable, especially if the encryption key has been lost or destroyed.
Professional services use advanced methods such as forensic analysis and clean-room technology to get your valuable information back safely and securely. They can even also assist with backing up your current system so that you don't have to worry about losing more important information in the future.
Contact a professional to learn more about data recovery.
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