When you discover that files or photographs on your computer, external storage device or other storage unit have gone missing, it’s easy to fly into a panic. Before you do anything else with the storage device, it’s important to create a plan of action in regard to recovering the lost data. At this point, many users opt for data recovery software. This article will explain the benefits and disadvantages of using this kind of software.
The Pros
More than anything, data recovery software is convenient. There is no need to bring your computer or storage device into a shop or have an expert look at it to restore your lost files. From the comfort of your own home or office, you can access one of dozens of data recovery tools that are available online.
There are cheap and even free applications available for Mac OS X, Windows, Linux, Android, iPhone and more, so it’s easy to find the right software for the job. There are also some recovery suites that focus on particular types of data restoration, such as if your data was lost to a viral attack or corruption. Specific tools make it easy to perform exactly the task that you need done.
Data recovery software also works quickly to recover lost or deleted files. You don’t have to surrender your computer to an expert who will then take many days to retrieve your data. A deep scan performed by a more powerful software tool could take an hour or longer, but this is still much faster than taking several days.
The Cons
The most notable disadvantage of data recovery software is the fact that users must have at least a cursory knowledge of their computer to be able to use it effectively. At the very least, users will have to know whether to restore Mac or restore Windows, they should know how to access different files, search for specific file types, and successfully navigate the storage menus on their computer or storage device.
If a novice tries their hand at DIY data recovery and makes a misstep, it is possible that they can do further damage – up to and including permanent data loss. It could even harm previously intact data, resulting in further data loss.
If your storage drive is physically damaged, such as if it is making a whirring or clicking sound when in use – data recovery software will not be able to recover any lost or deleted files from it. It is during this time that you should take the computer or storage device to a data restoration service.
In Conclusion
Data recovery software can be a lifesaver when files and photographs are accidentally deleted, lost or corrupted due to human error or viral attacks. However, it is essential that software users have an understanding of how to navigate their computer and attached devices to make the best use of this software. If a person does not know how to effectively use their chosen data recovery application, it could result in further – and permanent – data loss.
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