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The “blue screen of death” days may feel like they’re behind us, but you can never predict when your computer will shut off unexpectedly. When it does, nothing is more frightening because everything you had been working on for hours could be lost.
If you’re here, it’s because you’re trying to figure out how to get an important file back. Good news – you’ve come to the right place.
There is no judgment here. It could happen to anyone. All we’re concerned about is helping you get your precious information back so you won’t miss a deadline.
1. Data Recovery Software
If you think you’re the only one this has happened to, we can assure you that you’re far from alone. This is such a common problem that services for data recovery are constantly advancing and improving, so information that has been unsaved or accidentally deleted can be brought back.
This type of software is highly recommended for businesses and individuals. You’ll have the comfort of knowing any time you need to recover data in the future, you’ll have an immediate solution to turn to.
2. Look Where You Were Just Browsing
For example, let’s say you were typing up a Word document just before the fiasco. The moment you can get your device running again, go back to the application. If it offers you autosaved files, say yes, and make sure it’s not among them.
If not, press the “file” button, and on the right side of the page, you’ll see a list of your recently viewed documents. At the bottom of the screen, there will be an option to view more documents. Check through this list thoroughly to see if what you want is there.
3. Run Safe Mode
If you have a Windows-based device, there is a data recovery option known as safe mode. While it cannot be guaranteed to work every time, it has been known to recover files after an unexpected shutdown.
To get there, go to your computer’s search engine and type in “system configuration.” Click on the app that presents itself, and then click the “boot” tab. Once you’re there, check the box at the bottom of the tab that says “safe boot,” then press OK.
4. Use the System Restore Option
If your computer has lost critical information in the aftermath of a crash, there’s a way to restore it to how it was functioning before. Provided the crash isn’t malware-related, this option is usually reliable.
To perform this task, type “control panel” into your device’s search engine, and open the app. Once you’re there, click the tab that says “recovery.” There, you’ll find the “system restore” option. Click on it, and then next. Choose the date you want to restore the device’s system to, and then select “finish.”
5. Use the File History System
The last technique we’re going to discuss will begin with, you guessed it, your search engine. Type “file history.” You might need to turn it on, and when you do, select “Restore personal files.” After you do this, you’ll need to wait until the app can save copies of your files.
Once this is done, you can type in the name of the data you wish to recover.
Conclusion
What you need to do now is breathe and calm yourself. Just because a document doesn’t show up immediately when you turn your device back on doesn’t mean it’s lost forever.
Even when your computer’s in-built backup systems aren’t working, don’t despair. With the right recovery software, you can almost always save your vital data.
