Big 5 Reasons for Data Loss
In the article we showed you yesterday, there are 5 reasons of data loss. Today let’s check 5 more reasons for data loss so that you can learn more about data loss or file loss so that you can get a good way to avoid file loss.
1) Logical Errors
Logical errors are caused by system or file corruption, software problems, and invalid entries in file locations. They can cause corruption of other files on the drive and lead to data loss. Logical errors can be fixed using disk utilities in some cases although it’s recommended to reinstall the operating system and restore files from backup as many times repairing such issues doesn’t prevent future problems.
2) Continued Use after Signs of Failure
Many users ignore the early signs of drive failure. Clicking or grinding noises, system hangs, and random file deletion are early warning signs that a drive may be failing yet many users choose to ignore them which can lead to data loss. When a drive starts to show these signs, back it up immediately and consider replacing it. Users may also want to run drive integrity checks and verify S.M.A.R.T. status although these do not always catch every sign of possible hardware problems.
3) Power Failure
Power failure is a common cause of data loss. Having the power go out leads to loss of unsaved files and can even lead to file corruption. The best way to prevent this type of problem is through the use of an uninterrupted power supply or UPS. Insuring that you save your files frequently during creation will also help insure you minimize file loss should you lose power.
4) Firmware Corruption
Firmware on a hard drive controls the way it operates to read and write data to the disk. It is software code that tells the drive how to carry out various tasks. Although few think about it, this code is essential to the proper operation of the hard disk. When the firmware becomes damaged, the operating system is unable to recognize or access the hard drive. Firmware corruption is hard to guard against and the best defense is always insuring that you have a proper backup of your important data. Some data recovery services can swap out the hard drives logic board containing the corrupt firmware for a working one although this service is expensive. Drive makers that use non-standard firmware and drive bridges seem to have more frequent occurrences of hard drive firmware corruption than others.
5) Natural Disasters
Acts of god can cause data loss. Lightning strikes, power surges, flood, fire and earthquakes cause physical damage to hard drives and more. Protect your data by having a quality surge protector connected to your computer devices and store backup copies of your most important data off-site at another location or with an online backup service to make sure it’s safe in the event of disaster. Keeping a current backup on a separate drive stored in a safe location is always a good idea also. Some store a backup copy of their information at home and a 2nd copy at a friend or family member’s place that swap out and keep up to date weekly or monthly.
Being aware of the most common types of data loss helps the user understand the importance of insuring their data is safe and the steps needed to prevent loss of important files. Data loss is an all too common occurrence but having proper backup copies and being prepared with good data recovery software can go a long way to minimizing the hardship and headaches that usually accompany data loss.
