How do I recover files from an unbootable hard drive?

Answered by Cody Janus

To recover files from an unbootable hard drive, you can follow these steps:

1. Create a bootable media: Start by creating a bootable media, such as a USB drive or a CD/DVD, that contains a recovery tool or operating system. This will allow you to boot your unbootable system and access your files. There are various software options available for creating bootable media, such as Rufus or UNetbootin.

2. Set computer BIOS: After creating the bootable media, you will need to set your unbootable system’s BIOS to boot from the media you just created. To do this, restart your computer and enter the BIOS settings by pressing a specific key, usually displayed on the screen during startup (common keys include F2, F10, or Del). Once in the BIOS settings, navigate to the “Boot” or “Boot Order” section and change the boot priority to prioritize the bootable media.

3. Restart the unbootable computer: Save the changes made in the BIOS settings and restart your computer. Now, having set the BIOS to boot from the bootable media, your system should start up using the recovery tool or operating system present on the media.

4. Select the right hard drive: Once the system boots up, you may be presented with a menu or interface to choose the hard drive you want to recover data from. Select the unbootable hard drive where your files are located.

5. All-around recovery: Depending on the recovery tool or operating system you are using, there may be different options available to recover your data. Explore the interface and look for options like file explorer or data recovery utilities. These tools will allow you to browse and retrieve your files from the unbootable hard drive.

6. Recover your data: Use the file explorer or data recovery utilities to locate and select the files you want to recover. You may be able to copy the files to an external storage device, such as another USB drive or an external hard drive. Ensure you have enough space on the external storage device to accommodate the recovered files.

Remember to be patient during the data recovery process, as it may take some time depending on the size and condition of the unbootable hard drive. Additionally, it is recommended to consult professional help or refer to specific documentation for the recovery tool or operating system you are using for more detailed instructions tailored to your situation.