How can I recover files from external hard drive?

Losing access to files stored on an external hard drive can be alarming, especially if the drive contains important documents, photos, or backups. Fortunately, file recovery from an external hard drive is possible in many cases, even if the drive appears blank, unresponsive, or corrupted. This guide walks you through the common causes of data loss and the most effective steps to recover your files.

Common Causes of Data Loss

Before recovery, it helps to understand why files might disappear or become inaccessible:

Accidental deletion or formatting

File system corruption

Unsafe ejection or power failure

Malware or ransomware

Physical damage or mechanical failure

The recovery approach depends on whether the issue is logical (software-related) or physical (hardware-related).

Step-by-Step File Recovery Process

✅ Step 1: Stop Using the Drive

Avoid copying new files to the external hard drive. This reduces the risk of overwriting the deleted or lost data, which can make recovery more difficult or even impossible.

✅ Step 2: Check for Simple Errors

Sometimes the issue is minor. Try the following before diving into recovery tools:

Plug the drive into another USB port or computer.

Use a different cable.

On Windows, go to File Explorer > This PC to see if the drive appears.

On macOS, open Disk Utility to check if the drive is listed but not mounted.

If it’s visible but not accessible, proceed to recovery steps.

✅ Step 3: Use Data Recovery Software

If the drive is recognized by your system but appears empty or files are missing, try data recovery software:

Popular Tools:

Recuva (Windows – free and user-friendly)

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows/macOS)

Disk Drill (macOS/Windows)

PhotoRec (open source, for advanced users)

How to Use:

Install the software on a different drive, not the one you're recovering.

Launch the program and select the external drive.

Start a deep scan to search for deleted, lost, or formatted files.

Preview and recover selected files to a different storage location.

✅ Step 4: Check File System and Repair

Sometimes, the drive’s file system is damaged but fixable.

On Windows:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator

(Replace E: with your drive letter)

This will attempt to fix file system errors.

✅ Step 5: Seek Professional Data Recovery

If the drive is making clicking noises, won’t spin up, or isn’t detected at all, it may be physically damaged. In that case:

Don’t open the drive—this will void warranties and reduce chances of recovery.

Contact a certified data recovery service like:

Ontrack

DriveSavers

Gillware

These services use cleanrooms and specialized tools to recover data from physically damaged drives.

Conclusion

Recovering files from an external hard drive is often possible with the right tools and approach. If the drive is still spinning and recognized, data recovery software may be all you need. But if you suspect physical damage, professional help is your best option. To avoid future issues, always back up important data in multiple locations and safely eject drives before disconnecting.