What decides whether data recovery succeeds is usually not the recovery technique, but what happens in the few minutes after the drive first shows symptoms. The more you try “just one more thing”, the harder the data is to get back. This is a summary from the cases we see most often.
Hard drives fail in two very different ways
| Fault type | Signs | Chance of recovery |
|---|---|---|
| Logical fault (software) | The drive is detected but asks to be formatted, a partition is lost, or files will not open | Usually high if new data has not overwritten it |
| Physical fault (hardware) | HDD clicks, spins then stops, not detected in BIOS; SSD not detected or shows the wrong capacity | Depends on the damage; needs specialized equipment |
What to do right away
- Turn the machine off and disconnect the drive from power if it makes strange noises.
- Note the symptoms: what error appears and what incident came first (a drop, power cut, liquid).
- Mark the most important folders so the technician can prioritize them.
- Bring the drive in early, the same day if possible.
What you must never do
- Do not reinstall Windows or format “to get the machine running again”; this overwrites old data.
- Do not run recovery software installed directly onto the failing drive itself.
- Do not open an HDD yourself; tiny dust inside can scratch the platter within seconds.
- Do not put it in the fridge or heat it; this is a false and harmful tip that circulates online.
- Do not run chkdsk repeatedly on a drive making abnormal noises.
Our data recovery process at ANTECH
- Reception and initial inspectionWe identify HDD or SSD, logical or physical fault, and record the condition on the ticket.
- Solution and cost quotedYou know in advance the chance of recovery, the expected time and the cost. If we cannot recover it, there is no recovery fee.
- Clone the drive before workingFor a weak drive, we create a copy and work on the copy to avoid further damage.
- Data handoverA list of recovered files for you to check before paying.
Is SSD recovery the same as HDD?
How is the recovery cost calculated?
Unplug the drive and bring it to ANTECH. Initial inspection and a quote before any work.
Related articles
Does Reinstalling Windows Erase Your Data? What to Do Before You Install
Does reinstalling Windows erase your data? When it is lost, when it is kept, what to back up first, and common mistakes.
Backing Up Data Properly: the 3-2-1 Rule for Families and Small Shops
The 3-2-1 backup rule explained with real examples for families and small shops: how many copies, where, how often, and how to check a copy still wor…
LAN and Wi-Fi for a Small Office: What to Decide Before Running Cables
Designing LAN and Wi-Fi for an office of 5-30 people: cable choice, access point positions, guest and staff zones, and common cabling mistakes.