Data recovery refers to the process of retrieving or restoring lost, deleted, inaccessible, damaged, or corrupted data. It can be as straightforward as using a backup to get the lost files back to a server or storage system, or something more intricate that requires IT service technicians -- such as salvaging data from a physically damaged hard drive. Let’s look at some common causes behind data loss and how professional services can help.  

What Causes Data Loss? 

While malware and viruses can cause data loss, it is more commonly caused by human error. For instance, the PC user might’ve accidentally deleted important files while cleaning up folders. Or perhaps software was installed or updated that deleted or corrupted the data. Even the action of recovering data, if done incorrectly, can cause data loss or corruption. 

Data can also be inaccessible when the storage is physically damaged. For example, power surges and liquid spills could’ve damaged the components in a hard drive.  

 Why Should an IT Service Help Recover Your Data? 

Having IT service specialists recover the data for you is safer than trying to restore it yourself. They already own professional data recovery software and know the proper steps to retrieving the data depending on the problem. If your storage devices or computers were physically damaged, they also know what to do to reduce the risk of further corrupting the data.  

How Can You Prevent Data Loss?  

Backups
The best way to avoid losing data is to regularly create backups of your files. This can be done locally, such as an external hard drive or NAS unit, or through Cloud services like OneDrive, Cove, or Datto. Local backups have the benefit of being on hand without any passwords needed to reinstall, but cloud backups have a huge industry lead at this point because of their versatility, ease of use, and the fact that they can hold far more backup renditions than a simple local external drive. Cloud services, like Cove, have the added benefit of being able to choose HOW you want to retrieve your data and which backup you’d like it from. This way, it’s easier to restore data back to where you need it, instead of back to the last backup you remembered to perform to your local drive. However, possibly the MOST important part about having a cloud backup service, as opposed to a local external hard drive or NAS, is that the backup is not in the same place as the original. So, say you have a flood or a fire, your data remains safe and waiting for you to get your computers back online. 

Power
You may also want to invest in UPS or Uninterruptible Power Supply devices. These keep computers from suddenly shutting down during outages or surges, which can damage internal components in the drives. 

Anti-Virus
Be sure you have installed a robust Anti-Virus (AV) program on all your computers. Microsoft Defender is built right into Windows, but it is not the strongest option out there. Depending on what you are using the computers for, you may wish to choose a specific AV software that will not interfere with your workday. There are many to choose from, but Webroot tends to score high in protection while using the smallest amount of processing power. Most importantly, you will want to watch for ease of use, low processor usage, and quick scans that do not interfere with other programs. 

Dealing with lost data? You can bring your personal or business computers over to Microworx and their experienced IT service experts can see how they can restore the data for you. Or you could request an on-site visit to your location anywhere in Rochester, NY. Since 1994, they’ve been trusted with computer upgrades, PC building, repairs, and IT solutions by businesses and homeowners throughout the greater Rochester area. You can visit their website for a full list of services or call (585) 271-0050 to schedule appointments.