The first order of business is to get the computer back up and running if it isn’t already. Once the computer is back up, we can see if we can’t recover your data.
System Recovery
Since you haven’t said whether or not your computer has completely crashed, let’s assume that it has and that you need to reinstall the operating system. First, make absolutely sure that this step is necessary as it is a drastic one. If your computer is functional but you’ve lost your data, then skip this step and move onto the data recovery step.
In order to reinstall Windows, you will need to have your original installation discs or recovery discs that came with the system. Reinstalling Windows or using the recovery discs provided by the computer manufacturer will wipe your hard drive and then reinstall your operating system. When using recovery discs supplied by the manufacturer, your system will be exactly as it arrived straight out of the box complete with the original programs that came with your computer.
Simply insert the required disc in the CD drive, turn on the computer, and follow the prompts. Most computers are set to check for boot discs in the CD drive, so the boot disc should be detected and loaded automatically.
Recovering Data
While the reinstallation or recovery process most likely involved reformatting the hard drive, your data could very well remain on the hard disk. That’s because reformatting, while drastic, doesn’t actually erase the data. It makes changes to the various tables and indexes that contain references that Windows uses to locate the data, but it leaves the data virtually untouched.
This is good news for you, providing that the data hasn’t been overwritten by various new installations and files. This is why we will attempt the recovery before reinstalling all of your favorite programs. First, invest in a good data recovery software program. I recommend ParetoLogic Data Recovery which costs about $40-$50 depending on the version you choose. Actually, at this point, you don’t have to buy it yet because ParetoLogic offers a free scanner tool that you can use to determine whether or not your data is lurking within the drive. Go ahead and download this tool to a CD or USB stick and then run it, scanning your C drive for recoverable files. If you find the data you need, then you’ll need to upgrade to the full featured version in order to perform the recovery.
I suspect that you’ll find much of your previously lost data, if not all of it. Some files may be unrecoverable, but this technology never ceases to amaze me.
Reinstall Programs
Once the data is restored, you’ll have to go through the hassle of reinstalling all of your programs such as word processor, spreadsheet program, checkbook software, and anything else you’ve added since you first bought your computer.
Update Windows, Programs, Security Products, and Device Drivers
Your final task is one of the most important; you’ll need to update Windows, programs, anti-virus and anti-spyware products, and device drivers. Prioritize updating Windows and your security products as it’s critical to protect your computer from exploitation.
Final Steps
You’ll have several miscellaneous steps to complete including setting up your computer to connect to the Internet, your home network, and e-mail accounts. Another important task is to find a reliable backup solution. I use and online service called BeInSync and couldn’t be happier. This product backs up my data as I create or change it, sending it safely and securely online.
Celeste Stewart | November 13th, 2008
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