We generally treat the external hard drive as a digital vault, filled with priceless documents, memories, and important files. But imagine one day you open your vault and everything is gone!
Your data and memories are all lost, and the panic that will knock your door can be very scary. But you don’t need to worry because whatever may be the reason for data loss, it is not truly gone.
No matter if data is deleted accidentally or is gone due to drive failure, it can be recovered until overwritten, i.e., most of the time, data is just hidden or misplaced within the system rather than truly deleted.
So, if you take the right steps, recovery is possible and assured. In this guide, we will walk you through all the methods to bring your lost data back to life. Let’s get started for the same.
Table of Contents
Quick Fixes: Try These Simple Steps First!
Before turning to advanced recovery methods, try these quick troubleshooting steps:
- Reconnect & Switch Ports – A simple unplug-replug might do the trick.
- Use Another Computer – Sometimes, the issue is with your PC, not the drive.
- Swap Cables – A damaged USB cable can prevent proper detection.
- Assign a Drive Letter – Go to Disk Management and manually assign a letter if the drive isn’t showing up.
- Check for Hidden Files – In File Explorer, enable ‘Show Hidden Items’ to reveal hidden data.
If none of these work, let’s move on to more advanced recovery techniques.
Recovering Files from Backups: Your Safety Net
If you regularly back up your data, recovery is a breeze. Here’s how:
- Windows File History – Navigate to Control Panel > File History > Restore Personal Files.
- Cloud Storage – If you use OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox, check your deleted files folder.
- External Backup Devices – If you have a separate backup drive, copy your files back.
No backup? Don’t worry! There are other ways to retrieve your lost data.
Command Prompt Magic: Using Windows CMD for Recovery
For tech-savvy users, Windows’ built-in command tools can be a lifesaver:
Method 1: CHKDSK for File System Errors
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type chkdsk X: /f (replace ‘X’ with your drive letter) and press Enter.
- Wait for the process to fix any errors.
Method 2: ATTRIB to Reveal Hidden Files
- Open Command Prompt.
- Type attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.* (replace ‘X’ with your drive letter).
- Press Enter and check if your files reappear.
Powerful Data Recovery Software: Your Digital Lifeline
If you don’t have a backup, don’t lose hope. A professional Windows data recovery software like Stellar Data Recovery can help retrieve lost files.
How to Recover Files Using Stellar Data Recovery
- Download & Install – Install a trusted recovery tool on your computer.
- Select the Data Type – Select what type of data you want to recover, like documents, photos, etc.
- Select External Drive – Open the software and choose your external hard drive.
- Run a Deep Scan – Let the software search for lost or deleted files.
- Preview & Recover – Select the files you want to restore and save them to a safe location.
This method is highly effective for deleted files, corrupted drives, and accidental formatting.
Proactive Protection: Preventing Data Loss in the Future
Once you’ve recovered your files, take these steps to avoid future data disasters:
- Backup regularly – Use cloud storage, external backups, or Windows’ built-in backup tools.
- Eject Properly – Always use “Safely Remove Hardware” before unplugging.
- Keep an Eye on Drive Health – Use tools like CrystalDiskInfo to monitor your drive’s condition.
- Use Reliable Antivirus Software – Protect against malware that can corrupt or delete files.
- Avoid Physical Damage – Store your drive in a safe, dry place and handle it with care.
Final Thoughts: A Lost File Is Not Always Lost Forever!
It’s a known fact that losing important data is breathtaking, but now we know that following the right path, lost data can be brought back to existence. There are multiple ways to do the same, whether you recover through backups or if nothing works, then go for the best Windows data recovery software. The most important thing you need to remember is to avoid data overwriting, act quickly, and save yourself from future data crises by developing a good habit of data protection, as explained in this guide.
