A sudden hard drive failure or corrupted software can cause a catastrophic data loss that wipes out all your valuable data at once. While this issue is a common occurrence, most data loss happens gradually before the system fails. Fortunately, recognizing the following signs of impending failures and investing in a sound computer data recovery plan can keep you protected.

What Are Signs of Data Loss?

1. Clicking Hard Drive

Many older hard drives make some noise, but intermittent clicks are almost always a sign of mechanical trouble. The heads that record data might have crashed, or the small motors controlling the hard drive might be corrupted. While many of these problems can be repaired, backing up your data and replacing the entire hard drive is usually the safest approach.

2. Slow File Access

A variety of issues, such as low RAM or outdated software, can slow down file access speeds. However, if some files seem slower than others, vital programs or sections of the hard drive might be corrupted. If certain programs or files are suddenly crawling, start a computer data recovery backup immediately. Disk utilities like ScanDisk or ChkDsk can cause even more data loss, so avoid running them before backing up your files.

3. Blue Screens

The famous blue screen during startup might indicate a corrupted operating system or missing DLL files. However, it could also mean sectors of your hard drive are unreadable, or the disc itself might be failing. Blue screens often mean a total data loss isn’t far behind, so have the machine checked by a computer repair professional immediately.

4. Freezes & Crashes

Hangups and unexpected reboots can cause data loss and file corruption. Sometimes, these frustrating issues are related to incorrect hardware settings or conflicting software, or the computer might have a virus. When your system reboots in the middle of writing or reading a file, recent changes get garbled, potentially rendering the file unreadable. Fortunately, many of these issues can be relatively easy to resolve with the help of a skilled professional.

5. “Drive Not Formatted” Error

This error usually means a part of the drive has been deleted or corrupted. In many cases, it can be caused by a computer virus, power surge, or mechanical failure inside the drive. Unfortunately, this error often means a significant portion of your data might already be lost. A computer data recovery service can save any salvageable information and take steps to minimize the damage.

If you want to prevent data loss, turn to ION Technology Group in Voorhees, NJ. For over a decade, this company has protected clients throughout the Philadelphia region. They offer a high level of customer service and deliver the most advanced computer data recovery methods in the industry. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (856) 719-1818 to speak with an IT expert.