Check all connections
Even if connections visually appear to be in place, physically inspect and tighten all connections. Repeat this step for all connected device ensuring that devices are securely connected to the computer as well as their individual sources of power.
Restart the computer
IT professionals are well aware that their requests to restart devices are usually met with eye rolls. They also know, however, that an impressively high number of cases are resolved by a soft or hard reboot. It’s worth more than a try and is often the solution. If not, you know you’ve ruled out two common causes of an immediate and unexpected crash.
Write down errors you saw prior to or during the crash
While fresh in your memory, write down any errors that you saw on the screen prior to the crash. What were you doing at the time? When was the last time you completed an update? Did you have ongoing virus protection running at the time? Documenting this information can help a technician determine the cause of your problem.
Boot in safe mode, Last Known Configuration, and System Restore
Built-in options for recovery will differ by device and version of operating system. There are multiple wizards that will guide you through these processes. They are generally a good first step to seeing if you can resolve the problem on your own.
Do NOT purchase and run “recovery” or “restore” disks from untrusted sources
Most of these options are ineffective and may make it even more difficult to recover your data.
Back up what you can
If you are able to even momentarily regain access to your device, back up your data on an external hard drive before doing anything else.
Recovery options
It’s never a good feeling to run out of options. Even if your hard drive can’t be saved, Secure Data Recovery can save your precious data. Backing up your data before a crash is always preferable but it’s not always the reality. Your data is more than photos, documents, and files. It’s often memories, time, and money. Complete our quick and easy Help Form to get a quote for recovery. Quotes are free and you’ll be charged nothing if we can’t recover your data. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain back.