How to recover external hard disk
Losing data from an external hard disk can be a frustrating experience, especially when it contains important files and documents. Whether it’s due to accidental deletion, formatting, or hardware failure, the loss of data can be devastating. However, there are several methods and tools available to help you recover your lost data from an external hard disk. In this article, we will discuss the various ways to recover external hard disk data and provide you with step-by-step instructions to get your data back.
1. Use Data Recovery Software
The most common and effective method to recover data from an external hard disk is by using data recovery software. These programs are designed to scan your hard disk for lost or deleted files and restore them to their original location. Here are some popular data recovery software options:
– Recuva: A free and user-friendly data recovery tool that can recover files from various storage devices, including external hard disks.
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: A comprehensive data recovery software that offers a wide range of features and can recover data from various file systems, including NTFS, FAT, and exFAT.
– Disk Drill: A versatile data recovery tool that can recover lost files from external hard disks, USB flash drives, and other storage devices.
To use data recovery software, follow these steps:
1. Download and install the data recovery software on your computer.
2. Connect your external hard disk to the computer.
3. Open the data recovery software and select your external hard disk as the target drive.
4. Start the scanning process and wait for the software to analyze your hard disk.
5. Once the scan is complete, browse through the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
6. Choose a location to save the recovered files and start the recovery process.
2. Check for Lost Partition
If your external hard disk is not recognized by your computer, it could be due to a lost partition. In this case, you can use partition recovery software to restore the lost partition and recover your data. Here are some popular partition recovery tools:
– MiniTool Partition Wizard: A powerful partition recovery tool that can recover lost partitions, resize partitions, and manage disk space.
– EaseUS Partition Master: A user-friendly partition recovery tool that can recover lost partitions and resize partitions without data loss.
To recover a lost partition, follow these steps:
1. Download and install the partition recovery software on your computer.
2. Connect your external hard disk to the computer.
3. Open the partition recovery software and select your external hard disk as the target drive.
4. Start the scanning process and wait for the software to analyze your hard disk.
5. Once the scan is complete, locate the lost partition and restore it.
6. After restoring the partition, your data should be accessible again.
3. Seek Professional Help
If the above methods do not work, or if your external hard disk is physically damaged, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Data recovery services can help you recover data from physically damaged hard disks, but they can be expensive. Before sending your hard disk to a professional, make sure to back up any important data you still have access to.
In conclusion, recovering data from an external hard disk is possible with the right tools and methods. By using data recovery software, checking for lost partitions, or seeking professional help, you can get your lost data back and restore your peace of mind.
