Recover your file
Stop running random recovery tools. Get a diagnostic from a specialist who explains why your file went corrupt, the safest recovery options first, and when to stop DIY and hire a professional.
About file recovery
When a file goes corrupt or deleted, the worst thing you can do is panic and start running tools blind. Step 1 is always "stop writing to the drive" — every byte saved elsewhere can overwrite the data you're trying to recover. Step 2 is the cheapest, lowest risk: Trash, prior versions, cloud backups. Only after those fail should you reach for carving tools or paid recovery software.
The Qaynaq Labs File Recovery diagnostic builds a ladder from safest+cheapest (built-in OS undelete, prior versions, cloud) to most invasive (signature carving, paid software, professional clean-room). Format-specific repair tips (Word's Open and Repair, Excel's backup XML inside .xlsx, JPEG header reconstruction) are included where applicable.
Frequently asked
Can deleted files always be recovered?
No. SSDs with TRIM enabled wipe deleted blocks immediately — recovery is almost impossible. HDDs after quick-format are often recoverable. Physical damage requires professional recovery.
Should I just run Recuva / PhotoRec?
Sometimes — but only after the safe steps (Trash, prior versions, cloud) and ideally after imaging the drive. Free tools work great on simple deletions; they make physical-failure cases worse.
What's the difference between corruption and deletion?
Deletion: the data is still on disk but the filesystem says it's free. Corruption: the data is still indexed but parts are unreadable or scrambled. Recovery strategies differ — the diagnostic picks the right one.
When is professional recovery worth it?
Two cases: (1) physically damaged drive (clicking sounds, won't spin up) — DIY makes it worse. (2) Data value justifies $500-$3000. Otherwise stick to free tools.