What is Data Recovery?
Complete guide to understanding data recovery services
Data recovery is the process of retrieving lost, deleted, corrupted, or inaccessible data from damaged storage devices such as hard drives, SSDs, RAID arrays, and flash memory.
When a storage device fails or data becomes inaccessible, professional data recovery specialists use advanced techniques and specialized equipment to extract and restore the information. This process requires cleanroom facilities, proprietary tools, and years of expertise.
DataHelp is a leading European data recovery company with over 25 years of experience and a 95% success rate. We have successfully recovered data from over 55,000 devices.
What is Data Recovery?
Data recovery encompasses techniques used to retrieve data from storage media that has become inaccessible through normal means. This includes recovering data from failed hard drives, corrupted SSDs, damaged RAID arrays, and malfunctioning flash drives.
Logical Data Recovery
Recovers data from devices with software-related issues: accidental deletion, formatting, file system corruption, virus attacks, or partition loss. The hardware is functional but data is inaccessible.
Physical Data Recovery
Recovers data from devices with hardware failures: damaged read/write heads, failed motors, burnt electronics, or physically damaged flash chips. Requires cleanroom environment and specialized equipment.
When is Data Recovery Needed?
Professional data recovery is necessary when standard methods fail to access your data. Common scenarios include:
- Hard drive making clicking, grinding, or beeping sounds
- SSD not detected by computer or showing wrong capacity
- Accidentally deleted important files or formatted the drive
- RAID array failed or degraded, server not booting
- USB flash drive or SD card not recognized
- Water, fire, or physical damage to storage device
- Ransomware or virus attack encrypted your files
- Operating system won't boot, blue screen errors
How Data Recovery Works
Professional data recovery follows a systematic process to maximize the chances of successful recovery while ensuring data integrity:
Free Consultation
Contact us 24/7 to discuss your case. We'll provide initial assessment and arrange European pickup for €45.
Diagnostics (24-48 hours)
We examine the device in our cleanroom laboratory, identify the failure type, assess data recoverability, and provide a binding price quote.
Recovery Process (5-10 days)
Using specialized tools (PC-3000, cleanroom), we extract data. Simple cases: 2-5 days. Complex hardware repairs: 2-3 weeks.
Verification & Delivery
We verify recovered files and deliver data on new media or via secure FTP. You only pay if recovery is successful.
How Much Does Data Recovery Cost?
Data recovery costs vary based on device type, damage severity, and required techniques. Here are typical starting prices:
| Device Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Hard Drive (HDD) | from €150 |
| SSD Drive | from €200 |
| RAID / NAS Server | from €350 |
| USB Flash Drive | from €120 |
| SD / Memory Card | from €120 |
| Mobile Phone | from €200 |
European pickup + diagnostics costs €45 (included in final price). Personal delivery has free diagnostics. No data = no fee guarantee.
How to Choose a Data Recovery Company
Choosing the right data recovery provider is crucial. Here are key factors to consider:
Cleanroom Facility
Essential for HDD repairs. ISO Class 100 cleanroom prevents contamination during head replacements.
No Data, No Fee Policy
Reputable companies only charge for successful recovery. Avoid upfront fees beyond diagnostics.
Experience & Track Record
Look for 10+ years experience, thousands of successful cases, and positive customer reviews.
Transparent Pricing
Get a binding quote after diagnostics. Avoid companies with vague pricing or hidden fees.
Data Security
Ensure GDPR compliance, secure facilities, and confidentiality agreements for sensitive data.
Specialized Equipment
Professional tools like PC-3000, donor parts inventory, and proprietary recovery techniques.
Can I Recover Data Myself?
While software tools exist for simple deletions, DIY recovery is risky for hardware failures. Each failed attempt reduces successful recovery chances.
Warning
- Never open a hard drive outside a cleanroom - dust particles destroy platters
- Running a failing drive causes further damage - clicking means stop immediately
- Data recovery software cannot fix hardware failures
- Freezing a hard drive is a myth that causes condensation damage
- Every DIY attempt makes professional recovery harder and more expensive
Data Recovery FAQ
How long does data recovery take?
Standard recovery takes 5-10 business days. Simple logical issues: 2-5 days. Complex hardware repairs: 2-3 weeks. Express service (24-48 hours) available for urgent cases.
What is the success rate for data recovery?
DataHelp achieves a 95% success rate across all device types. Success depends on damage type and whether DIY attempts were made before professional recovery.
Is my data confidential during recovery?
Yes. We follow strict GDPR guidelines. Data never leaves our secure Prague laboratory. We sign NDAs for sensitive business data upon request.
Can you recover data from a clicking hard drive?
Yes. Clicking indicates head failure. We replace heads in our cleanroom using compatible donor parts. Success rate for head swaps is approximately 85%.
Do you recover data from SSDs?
Yes. SSD recovery requires specialized techniques for NAND flash chips, controller failures, and firmware issues. We use PC-3000 SSD and chip-off technology.
Need Data Recovery Help?
Contact our experts 24/7 for free consultation. European pickup for €45 + free diagnostics.