How to Recover Hard Drive Data Mistakenly Erased During Windows Installation: A Comprehensive Guide
During the process of installing a new Windows, if you mistakenly erase data while using diskpart, you may find yourself without access to your files. This article will guide you through several steps to recover your lost data, from external recovery software to professional recovery services.
If you chose not to save your data during the installation and only access the boot menu, your first step should be to consider using external recovery software. This software can help you retrieve your files by scanning the drive for readable data and making it accessible again.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
1. Data was not saved during installation
If you followed the Windows installation process without saving any data or documents, the solution might be to use specialized recovery software. There are many options available; you can explore the related questions for a list of recommended tools.
2. Data was saved but moved to a specific folder
If you did ask Windows to save your data, the next step is to search within the Windows.old folder and its subfolders. This folder is a common location where files are moved during the installation process.
Steps to Recover Your Data
If the Windows 10 installation was not completed, and you do have a backup of your data, your data might still be intact but inaccessible. In this case, you should remove the hard drive from your laptop, connect it to another computer using an external USB adapter, or install it internally on another system. Then, use data recovery software to attempt to recover your lost data.
If the above method fails, consider hiring a professional data recovery company. This service can be costly but may offer a higher chance of recovery. Even with professional services, there is no guarantee that 100% of your data will be recoverable, as some data may be lost.
Alternative Solutions: Using Linux and Tools
1. Erased Partition Table
In some cases, if you only erased the partition table, you might still be able to recover your data by booting the PC from a USB Live Linux thumb drive. Popular Linux distributions such as Ubuntu or Mint can be downloaded and installed on a USB thumb drive. Use a tool like TestDisk to search for and restore the partition table. Once the partition table is restored, the system should be able to boot, and you can copy your files off onto an external media HDD.
Note: You will need to perform this process on a different PC as your laptop no longer has an operating system.
2. Using Minitool Boot Recovery
If you prefer a more straightforward approach, you can use Minitool. Follow these steps: Download the software, create a bootable USB drive using Minitool Power Data Recovery, restart your system into the boot menu, and select Minitool to recover your data from your lost partition.
Conclusion
Data recovery after installing Windows can be challenging, but with the right tools and methods, you can increase your chances of success. Whether you choose to use specialized software, Linux tools, or professional services, taking action promptly can significantly improve the recovery outcome. If you have any concerns or if the data is highly important, seeking professional help is recommended.