Files Missing from External Hard drive! Now Get Them Back!

An external hard drive is a convenient portable data storage device that used by many people. Occasionally, files missing from external hard drive can also happen, causing frustration. However, there's no need to be concerned because there are methods available to recover your files. By following the shared easy instructions, you can enhance the chances of recovering data after files disappeared from external hard drive.

What to do when files missing from external hard drive?

Given different preferences, here we prepare both a Windows tool and a handy data recovery software for you to easily deal with files missing from external hard drive.

Way 1. Recover files from external hard drive via Windows File Recovery

If your computer runs on Windows 10 version 20H1 Build 19041 or a more recent version, and you prefer not to use any software, this approach can be suitable. However, it's not recommended for individuals who are not very familiar with computers to use this method, as errors could result in irreversible problems.

Step 1. Get Windows File Recovery from the Microsoft Store and install it with administrative privileges.

Note:

• Input the command line: winfr source-drive: destination-drive: [/mode] [/switches]
• Two scanning modes can be chosen: Default and Extensive. You can select according to your specific situation.

The Extensive mode can be further classified as two modes, Signature and Segment:
• Signature mode enables the recovery of all lost files by utilizing file headers within the file system.
• Segment mode allows the restoration of lost files, utilizing file record staging designed specifically for NTFS.
• Below are several switches you can utilize to customize the recovery task.

•  Kindly please be careful when entering commands. Incorrect commands can result in serious data loss.

Step 2. Select the Default mode and input the command "winfr C: D: /n *.docx" to search for all DOCX files on the C drive and copy them to the D drive. Press "Y" to proceed. Please remember to replace "C:" with the source drive and "D:" with the destination drive as per your requirements.

Way 2. Do external hard drive data recovery with AOMEI Partition Assistant

The second method is user-friendly and suitable for users of all skill levels. That is using a powerful third-party tool like AOMEI FastRecovery. It is a reliable computer management tool that is highly skilled at resolving various computer problems.

The "Recover Data" feature enables users to effortlessly retrieve data from various sources like external hard drives, HDDs, SSDs, SD cards, USB drives, and more. It can recover a wide range of file types, including documents, emails, videos, pictures, and over 200 other types, making it a versatile solution for various data loss situations.

If you tend to be careless or lack a regular backup routine, this tool is essential. It's especially crucial if you're at risk of losing data due to accidental deletion, virus attacks, or formatting without backups.

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI FastRecovery. Choose the exact partition or disk where your data lost and click Scan.

Step 2. Then, the recovery tool start to scan and search. lt will execute the “Quickly Scan" first for finding your deleted data fast, and then execute the “Deep Scan" for searching other lost data.

Step 3. Once the scan is completed, all deleted files, recycle bins and other missing files will be displayed. Please select the file you would like to recover and then click "Recover".

Step 4. Then, select a folder path to save your recovered files.

Step 5. Wait patiently for this process of recovering ends.

Final words

Files missing from external hard drive can be fixed easily with our shared method. However, to significantly cut down on the chances of losing data down the road, it's a great idea to keep up with regular backups. If you're still looking for the right tool, AOMEI FastRecovery can also make it easy to back up your Windows with its Disk Clone function. It's a simple way to keep your data safe!

If your hard drive keeps disappearing, consider or performing virus or malware scans. The multifunctional tool provides PC Cleaner feature to assist you. Besides, the Duplicate Files Finder and Delete Large Files can make your computer organized and clean, avoiding files missing from external hard drive to some degree. If you are a Windows Server user, please choose the AOMEI Partition Assistant Server edition.