Recovering Data from a RAW Disk (Windows Won't Boot) on Disk C:
If you're unable to boot your Windows installation on Disk C and the disk is showing as RAW, it can be a daunting task to recover your data. However, with the right tools and knowledge, you can successfully recover your files and get your system back up and running.
What is a RAW Disk?
A RAW disk is a disk that has not been formatted with a file system that Windows can recognize. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including power outages, hardware failures, or accidentally deleting the file system. When a disk is RAW, it's not possible to access the files stored on it using Windows Explorer or other file management tools.
How to Recover Data from a RAW Disk
To recover data from a RAW disk, you'll need to use a third-party data recovery tool. There are many options available, but some of the most popular include EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Recuva, and Disk Drill. These tools can scan the RAW disk and recover files, even if the file system has been damaged or deleted.
Step 1: Download and Install a Data Recovery Tool
The first step is to download and install a data recovery tool. Make sure to choose a reputable tool from a well-known company. Avoid tools that promise to recover data for free, as they may contain malware or other malicious software.
Step 2: Connect the RAW Disk to a Working Computer
Next, connect the RAW disk to a working computer. This can be done using an external hard drive enclosure or a USB-to-SATA adapter. Once the disk is connected, make sure it's recognized by the computer.
Step 3: Scan the RAW Disk
Launch the data recovery tool and select the RAW disk as the drive to scan. The tool will scan the disk and display a list of recoverable files. This process can take some time, depending on the size of the disk and the number of files to recover.
Step 4: Recover the Files
Once the scan is complete, select the files you want to recover and choose a location to save them. Make sure to save the files to a different drive or partition than the RAW disk, to avoid overwriting any data.
Preventing Data Loss in the Future
To prevent data loss in the future, make sure to regularly back up your files. This can be done using an external hard drive, a cloud storage service, or a combination of both. Additionally, make sure to keep your computer and hardware in good working order, and avoid using unproven or untrusted software.
References
Types of references: online resources.
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