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Asset IT are here to help you with your data recovery needs and here are top ten do's and don'ts when it comes to protecting your data from a hard drive failure.
1. Keep back ups. Not just one, but at least two. For a single computer we would recommend on-site (eg external hard drive or file server) and one off-site (eg online backup to a data centre, or routed through to a hard drive or server).
2. If a hard drive starts making any unusual noises - back up selected data immediately. Do not try a complete backup of the drive as it is inevitably about to fail. Simply prioritise your data and back up in priority order. You may only get one chance to do this before it fails!
3. DO NOT store your data in default directories eg My Documents, My Pictures, My Music. This is the first place a virus will seek to infect. Use unique directory names.
4. Place your computer on a desktop (not on the floor), away from windows, radiators or any heat source. Dust and heat are hard drive killers.
5. Make sure you have anti-virus and spyware protection and these are updated "live" every day.
6. If you have a problem and your computer will not boot, try opening in "safe" mode (usually by pressing F8 on start up). Do not let checkdisk run when prompted as this may well fragment your data.
7. Always ensure that every computer has a surge protector and switch off and unplug when it is not necessary to leave a system running.
8. Avoid running external hard drives constantly, unless yours has a good fan to keep it cool. External hard drives are prone to overheating and failing.
9. DO NOT be tempted to put a drive in the freezer if it has failed. This will cause moisture inside the drive to condense. If it is overheating try a fan or cooling mat.
10. If your drive is making any screeching, clicking or whining noises DO NOT attempt any type of recovery. Unplug and seek professional help.
11. This list is not extensive. It is a guide to some of the more usual problems that we encounter. If you suspect any problem with your drive, we will happily discuss the options with you - CALL US!
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