How to Recover Files From Ghosted Hard Drive?

You know all the grumbling you do about taking the backup of your data? Thus, most computer users prefer to back up their precious hard disk data or partitions in image file form. Ghost is the most widely-used backup software developed by Symantec that uses image files to store your entire hard drive data backup.

Ghosting actually creates identical or near-identical copies of a hard disk, which can then be used as a backup copy or to transfer a system onto another hard drive etc. Backing up with Ghost is like a backup in every sector unit; hence, it’s considered the complete backup. This makes you feel very safe and convenient to recover data even when your data go wrong, i.e., hard drive crashes or formats your hard drive accidentally, etc.

The easiest way to create the ghost image or hard drive clone is to use third-party applications explicitly designed for this purpose. But in some cases, performing incorrect operations while cloning the hard drive or using faulty ghosting applications could cause serious situations that may result in inaccessibility or loss of files stored on your hard drive. However, it’s not a permanent loss, and thus no need to worry much. This article will help you recover lost files from a ghosted hard drive. Keep Reading !!

Possible Reasons Behind Data Loss From Ghosted Hard Drive

Below we have added all the possible reasons which might be the reasons behind the data loss from ghosted hard drive:

1. Errors during the ghosting process: If errors occur during the cloning or imaging process, it can result in incomplete or corrupted data transfer.


2. Bad Sectors: Data loss can occur if the ghosted hard drive has bad sectors, which are physically damaged areas that cannot reliably store data, and these are copied to the target drive during cloning.


3. File System Corruption: Sometimes you’re the size of the ghost image created might be significantly larger than the original disk on which the image has to be saved might lead to the loss of files. This is because ghosting such a hard drive will destroy the root directory structure and cause file system corruption, making your files inaccessible due to an unreadable hard drive.


4. Incompatible Hardware: Differences in hardware between the source and target drives can cause compatibility issues and potential data loss during the ghosting process.


5. Power Loss or Interruptions: Unexpected power loss or interruptions during the cloning process can leave the target drive in an inconsistent state, potentially resulting in data loss.


6. Malware or Viruses: If the source drive is infected with malware or viruses, these malicious programs can be transferred to the target drive during cloning, leading to data loss.

3 Proven Methods To Recover Data From Ghosted Hard Drive

Below we have added three tried and tested methods to help you recover your lost files from your ghosted hard drive

Method 1: Check for Hardware Issues

Sometimes, a ghosted hard drive might be the result of hardware problems. Here are some of the possible hard drive issues you can check for and fix it:

• Check Connections: Ensure all connections (data and power cables) are securely plugged into the hard drive and motherboard.


• Test Different Ports: Connect the hard drive to a different SATA or applicable port on the motherboard to see if the issue persists.


• Listen for Unusual Sounds: Power on the system and listen for unusual clicking sounds from the hard drive. These could indicate a mechanical issue.


• Check BIOS/UEFI Settings: Access the BIOS or UEFI settings and ensure the hard drive is detected and properly recognized. If it's not listed, there might be a connection issue.


• Try in Another System: If possible, test the hard drive on a different computer to see if the issue follows the drive or remains isolated to the original system.


• Run Hardware Diagnostics: Some motherboards or manufacturer software might offer hardware diagnostic tools. Run these tests to identify any hardware problems with the hard drive.

Method 2: Using Data Recovery Software

One of the most common methods to recover files from a ghosted hard drive is by using professional hard drive data recovery software like Remo Recover.

Remo Recover is unparalleled when it comes to retrieving your files from ghosted hard drives. It performs exceptionally and requires just a few minutes for the entire recovery process. It only requires a few user inputs throughout the recovery process.

It employs powerful scanning algorithms to explore the hard drive, extracting all file types comprehensively. Its features include effortless restoration of images, videos, documents, and more, identifying files via unique signatures for accurate recovery. It also supports various hard drive types and formats like FAT16, FAT32, NTFS, and NTFS 5. Additionally, it's adept at recovering data from external drives, SSDs, USBs, and similar devices.

Steps to Recover Files From Ghosted Hard Drive Using Remo Recover

• Download and installing the Remo Recover software onto your system.
• Launch the software and identify the ghosted hard drive from which you need to retrieve files.



• Initiate the scanning process by clicking the "Scan" button within the software interface.



• Take advantage of the innovative “Dynamic Data View” feature during the Deep Scan, allowing you to recover data in real-time.



• Once the scanning process is complete, select the specific files that have been affected or lost.



• Before final recovery, ensure the integrity and correctness of the recovered files by using the free Preview feature.



• In the end, select the files you want to recover from the ghosted drive and hit the "Recover" button to save the files in a safe location.

Method 3: Seek Professional Assistance

If you find that data recovery software has been unsuccessful in retrieving data from your ghosted hard drive, an alternative option to consider is utilizing a professional ghosted hard drive recovery service. By engaging such a service, a skilled data recovery specialist will closely examine your hard drive and employ specialized commercial-grade equipment to attempt the recovery of your remaining data. These experts can recover data from SSDs, hard drives, flash media, and RAID arrays.

This avenue is particularly suitable for individuals who have encountered difficulties extracting information from a ghosted hard drive or those who lack confidence in their technical proficiency. The financial aspect need not be a significant concern, as reputable data recovery services offer competitive pricing. It's recommended to conduct thorough research to identify respected data recovery services with positive client reviews and a consistent history of successful data recoveries.

Tips to Prevent Data Loss From Ghosted Hard Drive

1. Regularly back up your important files to an external drive or cloud storage.
2. Avoid sudden power outages by using a UPS.
3. Install reliable antivirus software to prevent malware and corruption.
4. Handle your hard drive with care to avoid physical damage.

Conclusion

Sometimes ghosted hard drives can cause data loss. Prevent this data loss issues with reliable antivirus software, use "safely remove" before ejecting, and shut down PCs properly. Despite precautions, ghosted drives can fail. Use Windows utilities for recovery, or seek professional assistance. Remo Recover recovers data from ghosted drives effectively.