Formatted Drive Recovery
A quick format rewrites the file system structures, not the data. AS reconstructs the previous file system from what remains, or recovers files by content when structures are gone.
When you need this
- Wrong drive formatted during setup or reinstall
- Operating system reinstalled over a data drive
- Drive formatted from one file system to another
- Camera or device formatted media
- Full format on an SSD (limited feasibility)
What we do
Previous file system reconstruction
Remnants of the earlier NTFS, HFS+, APFS or ext structures are located and used to restore the original tree.
Signature-based recovery
Where structures are overwritten, files are recovered by content with integrity checks.
Clear feasibility advice
Full formats on SSDs and formats followed by heavy use are limited; we say so before proceeding.
How it works
- Step 1
Consultation and scope
We establish what failed, what has been tried, and which data matters most. This shapes a targeted plan rather than a generic one.
- Step 2
Secure imaging and diagnosis
Where possible the source media is imaged before any work, so the original is never altered. Diagnosis then determines the safest recovery method.
- Step 3
Recovery
Data is extracted from the image or source using methods matched to the failure — logical, structural or hardware-level as required.
- Step 4
Verification
Recovered data is checked for integrity and completeness, and a file list is shared so you can confirm what matters is there.
- Step 5
Secure delivery
Verified data is returned through an agreed secure method, with guidance on validation before it goes back into production.
What affects the outcome
Outcomes are never guaranteed. Every case is assessed on its own condition, and we tell you what is realistic before you commit.
- Physical condition of the media and the extent of any damage
- Whether the media has been written to, reformatted or re-initialised since the failure
- Encryption, corruption or partial overwriting of the data
- Availability of source data such as images, backups, logs or transaction records
- Attempts made before assessment (rebuilds, repair tools, repeated reboots)
AS Data Recovery
Scan a formatted drive and preview recoverable files before purchase.
Frequently asked questions
I reinstalled Windows on the drive. Is my data gone?
Partially. The installation overwrites some space, but data outside the written areas is frequently recoverable.
Does a full format destroy data?
On hard drives, full formats in modern Windows write zeros and are generally unrecoverable. Quick formats do not.
Related services
Not sure what you're dealing with?
Describe the situation and we'll tell you what's realistic.