How can I recover data from a computer that won't boot?

There are several possible causes of start-up problems. Your computer may no longer start up. Or the PC may turn on, but Windows won't boot.

Finally, there are cases where the computer simply won't turn on. In either case, the question is whether the data is still recoverable. It very well could be, and here's how.

Recovering data when a PC won't boot up

As usual, you power on your PC, only to find that it won't start. You see a black or blue screen.

You can try turning off the computer, checking the power supply and all the connections, then try booting the PC again. But the problem persists. The most difficult thing in this situation is to determine the source of the failure: is it a hardware or software problem?

Your computer isn't officially dead, but at this stage it's out of order. By the time you've diagnosed and repaired your PC, you may be able to recover your data. It's good to know that even if the PC won't boot up, the hard disk isn't necessarily corrupted. It's from this memory that you'll be able to recover all your files (videos, photos, Word or Excel documents, etc.).

Recovering files when Windows won't start up

Another frequent case: your operating system won't start. When you turn on your computer, the BIOS is displayed normally, as is your computer manufacturer's logo, but the operating system won't boot.

Fortunately, it's possible to recover files when Windows won't start up, thanks to data recovery software. As in the case of an out-of-order computer, all you have to do is retrieve the hard disk from your computer and plug it into another PC on which you'll perform data recovery. You can either plug it directly into the CPU, or use an enclosure that turns your computer's component into an external hard drive, so to speak. You can easily find these enclosures in physical computer stores or online.

Recovering data from a broken computer

In the first two cases, you'll always have indicator lights and your PC will boot up to a certain level. But you may also be faced with a more serious problem: a dead computer.

You've checked: all the cables are connected correctly and your PC has power, but there's no reaction, no lights, no noise. If it's not a power supply problem, it's most likely the motherboard.

At this stage, to avoid any corruption of the file, avoid any manipulation, unless of course you're a seasoned computer expert. If this is the case, simply remove your hard disk and plug it into another PC from which you can recover your data. This is perfectly possible as long as the hard disk is recognized, in all three of the above cases.