Freeware data recovery software, recovery data from 2015 when I bought the laptop Even after reinstalled windows few times
Recovering data from a hard drive after multiple Windows reinstalls can be challenging, but it is possible with the right data recovery software. Here are some popular freeware options you can try:
1. **Recuva**:
- User-friendly interface.
- Can recover deleted files from hard drives, memory cards, and external drives.
- Offers deep scan capabilities for thorough recovery.
2. **TestDisk**:
- An advanced tool primarily for recovering lost partitions and making non-booting disks bootable again.
- Works well for recovering data from damaged file systems.
- Comes with a command-line interface.
3. **PhotoRec**:
- Bundled with TestDisk, it's focused on recovering lost files (including photos and videos) from hard disks, CD-ROMs, and memory cards.
- Works even if the file system is severely damaged.
4. **Disk Drill** (Free version):
- Offers a user-friendly interface.
- The free version has limitations but can still recover some smaller files.
- Provides additional disk management features.
5. **EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard** (Free version):
- Handy tool for recovery with an intuitive interface.
- The free version allows you to recover up to 2 GB of files.
- It can recover files from formatted, deleted, or inaccessible partitions.
6. **MiniTool Power Data Recovery** (Free version):
- Offers a simple interface and good recovery options.
- Free version allows recovery of up to 1 GB of files.
### Steps to Recover Data:
1. **Stop Using the Drive**: To maximize recovery chances, avoid writing new data to the drive from which you want to recover files.
2. **Download and Install Recovery Software**: Use a different computer to download the software and copy it to a USB drive to transfer to the laptop.
3. **Run the Recovery Software**: Open the software and select the drive you want to scan for recoverable files.
4. **Scan for Files**: Let the software perform a scan. This may take some time, especially with deep scan options.
5. **Preview and Recover**: Once the scan is complete, preview the files found (if supported) to verify which ones you can recover. Select the desired files and choose a recovery location (ideally a different drive).
### Important Notes:
- **Success Rate**: The success of recovery depends on various factors like drive usage since the loss, the extent of overwriting, and the type of data.
- **Professional Help**: For critical data, consider professional data recovery services if freeware solutions don't work.
- **Backup**: In the future, regularly back up your data to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or both to minimize data loss risks.
### Disclaimer:
Always ensure that you download software from reputable sources to avoid malware or additional issues.