Corrupted files are one of the most commoncauses of data loss. Most people have experienced it in some form, withfiles becoming inoperable for no apparent reason. As common as it may be,though, very few people understand why it happens or what can be done to return corruptedfiles to working order.
Why files can become corrupted
Files of any kind can become corrupted for a multitude of reasons; somany, in fact, that providing a comprehensive list is simply not possible.Generally, though, they’re attributable to bugs in software or a problem with theread/write process when initially creating and storing data or when trying toretrieve it at a later date.
A file becomes corrupted when a piece or pieces of the data that form itare lost. As a result, when a user tries to open such a file, the storage mediais unable to reconstruct it and reports an error. At other times, the datarequired to reconstruct the file is still present, but the media is unable tolocate it. Either way, the file in question has been corrupted.
The most common causes of these errors include power surges, failing toshut down a device properly and ageing media.
Can corrupted data be recovered?
For those asking if it’s possible to recover corrupted data we have goodand bad news: it’s possible but professional help may be needed.
Sometimes, users will be able to recover a previous version of the fileusing their operating system’s built-in software. These tools are often able toreconstruct files by finding older versions and using them to piece thecorrupted file back together.
If this is unsuccessful, then a user may purchase specialist softwareand attempt a recovery themselves. This may work but we’d recommend againstthis, particularly if the data is of emotional, monetary or practical value.
Data recovery software is capable of achieving results in certaincirc*mstances, but using it effectively requires a skillset that the vastmajority of people simply do not possess. Instead, you should trust theprofessionals.
How to prevent data corruption
It may not be possible to ensure that you never have to deal withcorrupted data again but, with a little effort, you can go a long way towardspreventing it.
Firstly, ensure you always shut down your device correctly. This isundoubtedly behind the majority of corrupted files we’ve encountered over thepast two decades.
Older hard drives often generate corrupt data at a far greater rate sowe’d also recommend that you remain mindful of this and replace your drive onceit reaches a certain age.
Finally – and most importantly – always backup your important data. Thiswon’t prevent data corruption directly, but it’ll ensure that you always have asecure copy of your data to hand when it does.
What if I’ve forgotten to backup my data?
If you’ve lost vital data and don’t have a backup, Fields Data Recoverycan help! We’redata recovery experts offering a free diagnostic and no-obligation quote.Get in touch with us today.
FAQs
A file becomes corrupted when a piece or pieces of the data that form it are lost. As a result, when a user tries to open such a file, the storage media is unable to reconstruct it and reports an error. At other times, the data required to reconstruct the file is still present, but the media is unable to locate it.
Is it possible to recover corrupted files? ›
Whether you have a Word document or an Excel spreadsheet containing invaluable work data or a treasured set of personal photos, receiving this error message can easily cause panic. Not to worry—all is not lost. Corrupted files can be restored, and the process is made even easier if you use the right software.
What happens if you have a corrupted file? ›
Corrupted files are computer files that suddenly become inoperable or unusable. There are several reasons why a file may become corrupted. In some cases, it is possible to recover and fix the corrupted file, while at other times it may be necessary to delete the file and replace it with an earlier saved version.
How do you recover if a file system is corrupted or crashed? ›
You can use a file system repair approach: If the damage is minor and primarily due to file system corruption, you might be able to repair it using built-in tools. For example, on Windows, you can use "chkdsk" (Check Disk), and on Linux, you can use "fsck" (File System Consistency Check).
What does a corrupt file look like? ›
The data that it displays will typically be random or garbled. This is due to the fact that your computer is attempting to replace the missing information by itself. This is commonly seen when image files become corrupt, as the picture will look nothing like it is supposed to.
How do I uncorrupt my file? ›
How to Fix Corrupted Files
- Perform a check disk on the hard drive. Running this tool scans the hard drive and attempts to recover bad sectors. ...
- Use the CHKDSK command. This is the command version of the tool we looked at above. ...
- Use the SFC /scannow command. ...
- Change the file format. ...
- Use file repair software.
In the command prompt window, type SFC /scannow and press Enter . The system file checker utility checks the integrity of Windows system files and repairs them if required. After the process is complete, reboot the computer.
How do I fix corrupted data files? ›
Read on to find out some of the quickest ways to restore corrupted files and fix them.
- 1 Restore Previous Versions.
- 2 Use System Restore.
- 3 The Best Corrupted Files Recovery Software - Recoverit.
- 4 Use the SFC /Scannow command.
- 5 Use DISM tool.
- 6 Use the CHKDSK command.
- 7 Perform SFC scan before Windows 10 starts.
Causes of Data Corruption
Faulty software logic and coding errors can mismanage file operations, leading to corrupted files and databases. Network Issues: During transmission over networks, data can become corrupted due to packet loss, transmission errors, or unreliable connections.
Can I open a corrupted file? ›
The Open and Repair command might be able to recover your file. Click File > Open > Browse and then go to the location or folder where the document (Word), workbook (Excel), or presentation (PowerPoint) is stored.
A file becomes corrupted when a piece or pieces of the data that form it are lost. As a result, when a user tries to open such a file, the storage media is unable to reconstruct it and reports an error. At other times, the data required to reconstruct the file is still present, but the media is unable to locate it.
How can you recover data from a damaged file system? ›
Here are some steps to help you recover data from a corrupted hard drive on Windows 11:
- Step 1: Diagnose the Problem. The first step is to determine if the hard drive is physically damaged or if it is just a software issue. ...
- Step 2: Use CHKDSK. ...
- Step 3: Use a Data Recovery Software. ...
- Step 4: Restore from Backup.
Steps
- Navigate to the File tab in Word. Then click Open.
- Select Browse and go to the location or folder where the corrupted file is stored.
- Select the corrupted file and click the drop-down arrow next to the Open button.
- Click Open and Repair. ...
- If successful, the document will open.
Deleting Corrupted Files Easily
Boot your PC or Mac into Safe Mode, then delete the files normally. On Windows, you can also open Command Prompt as an administrator and use del /F /Q /A <filepath>. On a Mac, delete corrupted files in Terminal using the command sudo rm -R filename.
Can corrupt files damage your computer? ›
One of the key reasons Windows system files and components like DLLs and the Windows Registry get corrupted is through malware infection and viruses. This can be debilitating for your computer, causing countless errors and crashes.
What happens if a file system is corrupted? ›
One symptom of a corrupt file system is that the system cannot locate, read, or write data located in the particular file system.
Can virus corrupted files be recovered? ›
Right-click on the folder and click on "Restore previous versions." A new window will open, showing all the previous saved versions that were automatically created by the system based on the established parameters. Simply select the desired option to recover the data.
How can I recover corrupted files for free? ›
8 Best Corrupted File Recovery Software Free 2023
- Recoverit Free Data Recovery.
- iBoysoft Data Recovery.
- Soft Perfect File Recovery.
- Puran File Recovery.
- Recuva Data Recovery.
- Stellar Phoenix Data Recovery.
- iCare Data Recovery.
- PC Inspector File Recovery.
If the failure is logical, such as due to corrupted files or a damaged file system, you can potentially recover files at home using data recovery software. However, if the failure is physical, such as from a damaged disk or mechanical failure, home recovery is not feasible.
