Linux is a fundamentally flexible operating system, and because most distributions are open source, capable options exist for both personal computer users and businesses. It is a scalable operating system, and many distributions implement powerful safeguards against file corruption. Some versions of Linux also have undelete and backup functions, which further limits the chances of permanent data loss.Even with these features, however, file loss is a common issue for Linux and UNIX users.
Some of the most common reasons for data loss include:
- Physical Hard Drive Failure and Electronic Damage
- File Corruption
- Logical Damage from Viruses, Accidental Deletion and Formatting
- Linux Server Rebuild Failures and Other RAID Issues
Linux uses specialized folder structures and file systems, and different distributions can present new challenges for data recovery engineers. At Secure Data Recovery Services, we have dedicated tools for all file systems used with Linux and UNIX, including exFAT, ext2, btrfs, ext3, NTFS and many others. We also have experience with dozens of major distributions such as Ubuntu, Mint, Solaris, CentOS, Fedora and Debian.
What to Do When a Linux Computer Loses Data
- If you lose access to important files, you should immediately shut down your computer or server. This will help to prevent overwrites, physical damage and other issues that could cause permanent data loss.
- Do not attempt to recover your files with third-party applications or through shell commands. Depending on the source of the damage, software could complicate the data recovery process significantly.
- Linux servers should be disconnected, but if this is not possible, isolate the affected partition to prevent accidental overwrites (however, if you notice signs of physical media issues, shut down the array entirely).
- Unplug the power source from personal computers to prevent surges and other electrical events from affecting your media.
- Immediately contact a data recovery company with Linux or UNIX experience.
Secure Data Recovery Services can provide the fast answers you need to make a recovery plan for your system, and because we use state-of-the-art technology to perform RAID repair, file repair and other advanced services, we are approved by all major hardware vendors as a safe data recovery option.
