Data Recovery

Data and files on your hard drive are very important, whether its the core operating system files or pictures of your last holiday.

Hard drive failure is an all too common issue. If the hard drive fails internally, it will be very difficult to recover the data and very specialist equipment is required to recover (if possible) any data from the failed drive.

If the operating system fails (Microsoft Windows) and the computer or laptop will not boot up, then all is not lost. PCSS can recover most, if not all of your precious files. We are able to use alternative boot software or alternative computers to recover any lost data, even if recovery of the operating sytem is not possible. This includes pictures, documents and media files including iTunes music downloads.

We can recover the data onto a DVD or a usb memory stick. We will also recover data to any removeable drive you can provide (USB hard drive/Jazz disc etc).

Recovery is just a phone call away, call us, describe the problem you are having and we will explan and discuss the options available. All advice is free and options will be simply explained along with timescales and costs.

Hard Drive security - Anti theft:

Many hard drives especially in laptops have built in hardware security. This means a password can be applied so when the computer boots up, a password is required which 'unlocks' the hard drive and allows it to be used by the computer. This secures your data if the laptop is lost or stolen -  as the laptop cannot be used without the password and the drive cannot be accessed without the password (even in a different computer).

In addition to this, another type of security in the form of a security chip inside the computer is being used. This will 'lock' the computer to the original hard drive. Meaning that if the laptop hard drive is changed, it will not work and render the computer useless unless the original hard drive is used or the security chip is changed.

If your drive has a security password, PCSS will not be able to recover your data. Please note that a 'HDD Security' or 'HDD Lock' password is not the same as the computer 'BIOS' or 'Boot up' password. Nor is it the same as the Microsoft Windows 'Log On' password. PCSS can recover data if these passwords are lost or foggoten. Please call to discuss and a free inspection may be required.

These security measures are primarily designed to help stop the flow and sale of stolen laptops. For this reason, PCSS do not offer the 'hacking' of these passwords or the replacement of the security chips. There are specialist companies on the internet that can provide these services or speaking to your equipment manufacturer could provide a solution.

Please call us to discuss any data issues and we will do all we can to help.