DATA
RECOVERY
Deleted the wrong folder, formatted the wrong drive, or a computer that won't start with years of photos on it? If the drive still shows up when it's plugged in, I copy it first so nothing gets worse, then get your files back from the copy.
Drop-off service only. Bring the computer, external drive or USB stick to me in Waynesville, NC. I don't do remote fixes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- A full copy of the drive made first, so the original is never written to
- Deleted photos, documents and other files pulled from the copy
- Lost or formatted partitions checked
- Recovered files put on a USB drive or your new computer, checked to open
- Your files stay private: my working copy is deleted once you have them
GOOD TO KNOW
Works on drives that still show up when plugged in: deleted files, a failing or slow drive, a computer that won't start, a formatted drive. Laptops, desktops, external drives, USB sticks and memory cards.
Clicking, beeping, not detected, or water or fire damage: turn it off and leave it off. Those need a specialist lab with a cleanroom, and I'll tell you so honestly.
Files deleted from an SSD are often gone for good, because SSDs clear deleted space on their own. The sooner you stop using it, the better.
Drives locked with BitLocker or other encryption need the recovery key.
Drive failing, but your files are safe? Swap it for a new SSD →
Open Mon–Sat 7 AM–10 PM · Drop-off & pickup by appointment · book online or call (800) 292-8397
LOST FILES? DO THIS NOW
- Stop using the computer or drive. Every new file can write over what you lost.
- Don't install recovery programs onto the same drive.
- If the drive clicks, beeps or isn't detected, power it off and leave it off.
- Bring it in and tell me what happened (deleted, formatted, dropped, won't start).
HOW MUCH DOES DATA RECOVERY COST?
It starts with the $40 diagnostic ($42.80 with NC sales tax): I check the drive and tell you what can likely be recovered and the exact price before I start. If you go ahead, the recovery's labor is at least $80 in total, and the $40 you paid counts toward it. If you decide not to, you only pay the $40. Parts, like a replacement drive, are priced upfront at cost plus 10%. All prices plus 7% NC sales tax.
HOW DOES DATA RECOVERY WORK?
STEP 1
Diagnostic
I check the drive and tell you what can likely be recovered, and the price, before I start ($40, counts toward the recovery).
STEP 2
Copy first
The whole drive is copied to one of my drives, reading the healthy parts first. Your original is never written to.
STEP 3
Recover
Deleted photos, documents and other files are pulled from the copy, and lost or formatted partitions are checked.
STEP 4
Hand back
Your files go on a USB drive or your new computer, checked to open. My working copy is deleted once you have them.
Files safe for now? Keep a second copy: How to back up your photos & files →
BOOK YOUR DROP-OFF
Pick your drop-off time online. Labor is paid at pickup, once the work is done.
Pick a Drop-Off Time