How to Recover Files from a Dead Computer

Data loss is one of the top issues for which PC and laptop users contact Geeks Callout London and use our data recovery service. However, in this guide, we’ll share some of the most practical tips that can help you restore files from a dead computer. 

Losing data can be devastating for users, especially when you’re currently working on some project and your computer shuts down unexpectedly. When the computer doesn’t start again, gets stuck on the logo screen or shuts down abnormally again and again, these are the indications that your data is at risk.

Hard drive failure, faulty motherboard or malfunctioning operating system can all be the cause for this and it may lead to partial or complete data loss. But, there might be some hope. Let’s see what methods you can apply to restore your data from a dead computer.  

1- Use a Windows Installation DVD:

If your computer doesn’t boot, it could be possible that the OS has become corrupt. You can use a Windows installation DVD to reinstall the windows or copy the files from the hard drive to another drive like a USB. On the contrary, if the windows act up because the hard drive is at its last stages, don’t worry as this method may also work for this situation.

• Insert the OS Disc in the computer.
• Thumb any key to navigate to the Windows installation display.
• When you see the “Install Now” window, click on the “Repair your computer” option present at the bottom-left of the screen.
• Click “Troubleshoot” and go to “Advanced Options” and choose “Command Prompt.”
• In the Command Prompt window, type “Notepad” and thumb “Enter.”
• Once the Notepad opens, click on the “File” option and tap on “Open.”

• In the pop-up window, pick “All Files” at the bottom and choose “Computer” from the sidebar.
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• From here, you can copy and paste data from the computer’s hard drive onto an external USB flash drive.

Note: Make sure that you do not double click any folders as it may result in opening of the files that could actually freeze the notepad window or the entire system screen. Right-click on the files and copy them for pasting on the external hard drive. In case the notepad gets stuck, you could use the command prompt and open the task manager by typing, “taskmgr.” You may choose the “Notepad” from the pop-up window and click on the “End Task” option.

• Once you’re done with creating a backup, you may either shut down the computer or continue to the settings for reinstalling Windows. Remember to safely remove the backup drive before you proceed with the installation.

2- Remove the hard drive and insert it in another computer:

If there’s nothing wrong with the hard drive, then you may take it out from your computer and insert it in another computer. However, the best way would be placing the hard drive in an enclosure case that would allow you to connect it via the port to any laptop or PC. This way you could secure all your data by copying it to another device. If you want to remove the hard drive, then you may check out the guide on iFixit for disassembling your computer as per your model. But, remember that opening the backplate and making changes could void your machine’s warranty. 

3- Try to boot Windows in Safe Mode:

If the computer turns on but the Windows do not start normally, press the F8 key for Windows 7 to boot in safe mode. If Windows successfully starts in the safe mode, you may insert a USB flash drive in the computer and quickly copy-paste all your important data to avoid data loss. Once all your data is secure, you may troubleshoot the issues that might be causing malfunctions in your computer.

4- Use a data recovery software:

You may use data recovery software. Such software allows users to recover data by installing the program on a USB, creating a bootable drive that helps you access your files and copy them to an external hard drive. Depending on what software you choose, the steps of installing and activating it on the USB might differ; however, the process involved is usually pretty straightforward. Anyone can manage using it for recovering data. Some of these programs also help in repairing the computer or reinstalling Windows in case of a corrupted operating system.

Final Thoughts:

Losing one’s data all of a sudden results in alarming circumstances. Anybody working on an important assignment or project can feel the stress of losing their work when the computer starts to act up abnormally and doesn’t boot. So, the above-mentioned methods can help you deal with the problem at hand and save your data. If you can’t manage to retrieve files from a dead computer/laptop, you may contact us to help you.