Common Data Recovery Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest data recovery mistake is carrying on using the device. Deleted or lost files usually stay on the drive until new data overwrites them, so every action after the loss lowers your chances of getting them back. These are the seven mistakes we see most often.

1. Carrying on using the device

Browsing, installing software and saving files all write new data to the drive. Stop using the device as soon as you notice the loss. On a solid-state drive (SSD), a feature called TRIM can permanently clear deleted data soon after deletion, so speed matters even more.

2. Saving recovered files to the same drive

Always recover files to a different drive. Writing them back to the original can overwrite the very data you are trying to rescue.

3. Running disk repair tools on a failing drive

Tools such as chkdsk can change the file system and make recovery harder. If the drive is clicking, grinding, slow to respond or not detected, do not run repair tools. Copy the files off first, or get help.

4. Opening the drive or trying home remedies

Opening a hard drive outside a cleanroom lets dust onto the platters, and putting a drive in the freezer or repeatedly powering it on can cause more damage. If a drive has been dropped, wet or burnt, leave it switched off.

5. Formatting or reinstalling to "fix" the problem

Reinstalling Windows or reformatting a drive replaces the structures that point to your files. Recovery is sometimes still possible, but it gets harder with every write.

6. Trusting any free tool

Recovery software can help with simple cases such as accidental deletion, but install it on a different drive and use a reputable product. Never install it on the drive you are recovering from.

7. Having no backup to fall back on

Recovery is a rescue, not a plan. A tested backup following the 3-2-1 rule (three copies, on two types of storage, with one offsite) is far cheaper and more reliable. See our backup and disaster recovery service.

What to do instead

1. Stop using the device and disconnect it if you can.
2. Note what happened and any error messages.
3. Check the Recycle Bin, OneDrive's recycle bin and any backups.
4. If the files are not there, or the device has a physical fault, contact a data recovery specialist.