Computer

Does Scanning and Repairing Drive Delete Files? Find Out

You might see the “Scan and Fix” message when you plug in a USB or SD card. This often happens if you didn’t eject the device properly. The operating system suggests scanning to fix any damaged parts or errors. Normally, this scan won’t erase your files. Yet, it’s key to know scanning could expose files to viruses.

If you do end up losing files after a scan, don’t worry. Programs like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can bring them back with a high success rate. Always make sure to back up your data before you decide to scan and fix. This step is your safety net against losing important stuff.

What Is the “Scan and Fix” Feature?

The “Scan and Fix” feature is a vital tool in Windows. It keeps your external drives working well. This tool finds and fixes errors or bad spots on these drives. That way, they work reliably for you.

Definition and Function

“Scan and Fix” is all about fixing errors. When you see this message, it means there might be problems like damaged files or bad spots on your drive. It usually uses a utility called CHKDSK to look for and fix these issues. Choosing “Scan and fix (recommended)” helps keep your files safe.

Common Scenarios for the Prompt

You might see the “Scan and Fix” message in a few situations. For example:

  • When you plug in a drive or USB that wasn’t removed safely before.
  • If there’s been a power cut while using an external drive.
  • When trying to open files and they seem damaged.

Why Does It Appear?

This message often shows up if a drive is unplugged without being safely ejected. It could also appear if an error happens while writing files, leading to damage. The “Scan and Fix” uses CHKDSK to find and fix these problems. Even though it aims to fix issues, always back up your data first. That protects your files from possible data loss.

READ:
CRX Files Explained: Enhance Your Chrome Experience

Does Scanning and Repairing Drive Delete Files?

Are you worried that scanning and repairing your storage might delete files? These tools, like CHKDSK, aim to fix errors and keep data safe. However, sometimes files get deleted. Let’s look into why this happens.

Understanding the Risks Involved

The CHKDSK tool checks your data’s health, which might expose damaged files. These damaged files could be deleted to keep the system running well. Also, issues like viruses or not safely removing drives can risk your data, especially without backups.

Instances When Files May Be Deleted

During scanning, some users have noticed missing files. The causes range from corruption, viruses, to scanning errors. Not safely removing hardware can also lead to data loss. These problems show why backups and careful handling of devices are key.

While no recovery method is perfect, some tools greatly improve your odds. For instance, AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional is highly effective with a wide range of data types. It’s a solid option for trying to get lost files back after scans.

Is It Safe to Scan and Fix Your Drive?

Using the “Scan and Fix” option can make your drive run better, but it’s vital to ensure it’s safe. Before you start this feature, knowing how to do it without losing your data is essential. Here are some key safety tips and steps to follow.

Safety Measures to Prevent Data Loss

  • Adopt strong data safety steps, like backing up files regularly. This keeps your important data secure, no matter what happens.
  • Before scanning, check for viruses. Viruses can make files disappear or not open properly.
  • Use trusted recovery tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional to get back lost data from various places.
  • Don’t put new files on the problem drive. It could overwrite the data you’re trying to save, making recovery harder.

Steps to Follow Before Running the Process

  1. Backup Important Files: Always make extra copies of your key data on another device. It reduces the risk of data loss.
  2. Check Connections: Make sure all connections to your drive are secure. This ensures the scan doesn’t get interrupted.
  3. Safely Remove Hardware: Use the “Safely Remove Hardware” option to eject USBs and SD cards right. Skipping this can cause the “Scan and Fix” alert.
  4. Analyze Drive Health: Tools like Disk Management and Chkdsk can spot problems before they get worse. Use them to check your drive’s condition.
READ:
Eject on Mac: A Simple Guide to Safe Removal

Following these pre-scan steps and avoiding data loss tactics ensures a safe scan and fix. Regular backups and careful drive care are your best bet against losing data.

How to Recover Files Deleted After the “Scan and Fix”

Sometimes, the “Scan and Fix” tool on Windows might delete your files. To solve this, it’s smart to use good data recovery software. Let’s look at how to get your files back and which tools can help.

Using Data Recovery.Httpserv Software

After a “Scan and Fix,” data recovery software is key. Use MyRecover, MiniTool Power Data Recovery, or Wondershare Recoverit to find and get back lost files. Disk Drill even lets you bring back up to 500 MB for free. It works with NTFS, FAT32, and exFAT file systems.

Steps to Recover Deleted Files

These steps will guide you through getting your files back:

  1. Connect the affected storage device to your computer.
  2. Start a scan with your chosen software, like MyRecover or MiniTool Power Data Recovery.
  3. Let the software find files you can bring back.
  4. Look through the files to find what you need.
  5. Choose files and save them to a safe place on your computer.

Popular Data Recovery Tools//www.example.com/petfrht

These tools are well-liked for getting files back easily and effectively:

  • Wondershare Recoverit: It’s easy to use and works well for different file types.
  • EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: With a 99.7% success rate and a high Trustpilot score, it works on various Windows setups.
  • Disk Drill: Recover up to 500 MB for free and use it for different file systems, good for many situations.
  • Recuva: A cheaper option that’s still great at bringing back files that were recently deleted.

Act fast and don’t save new stuff on your device to increase your chances of recovery.

Preventing Data Loss When Using “Scan and Fix”

To avoid losing important files, it’s essential to use “Scan and Fix” safely. Make sure to handle your devices with care and back up your files regularly. Connect your external storage devices gently. Use the “Safe to Remove Hardware” feature to prevent file damage.

READ:
Troubleshooting: Why Is My HDD Not Showing Up?

Here are some key preventive strategies:

  • Keep USB and SD card interfaces clean to ensure a stable connection.
  • Conduct regular backups of crucial data using reliable tools like AOMEI Backupper to avert potential loss.
  • Perform regular malware scans and update your operating system to maintain system integrity.
  • Handle your devices carefully to avoid physical damage that could trigger the “Scan and Fix” prompt.
  • Engage in periodic drive cleanups and monitor the performance and health of your drives routinely.

If you still lose data, don’t worry. Powerful data recovery tools exist to help you get your files back. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is highly regarded, boasting a 99.7% recovery rate. Trustpilot users rate it at 4.7.

Other tools like Wondershare Recoverit and AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional are also effective. They offer high success rates in recovering a variety of data types.

By following these suggestions and using the best recovery tools, you can lower the risk of data loss with “Scan and Fix.”

Conclusion

The “Scan and Fix” tool helps with drive issues but carries risks. It can fix disk errors and keep your storage healthy. But, there’s a chance it might delete files. Knowing about this is key to protecting your data.

Always back up your data to keep files safe. Think carefully before you use “Scan and Fix.” Make sure to back up your files first. This step helps avoid losing data by accident or due to system problems.

If you lose files after using “Scan and Fix,” don’t worry. You can try data recovery tools like Disk Drill Data Recovery, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, MyRecover, and MiniTool Power Data Recovery. These have great recovery rates and work with many systems. For tough cases, professional help can make a difference.

Knowing about “Scan and Fix” and having good backup habits keeps you ready for drive repairs. This way, you can fix issues without losing your valuable files. Being prepared and careful helps you avoid data loss and stay digitally safe.

Back to top button