How to recover files using TestDisk?

To recover files using TestDisk, follow these detailed steps:

1. Install TestDisk (if not already installed):

   • On Debian/Ubuntu:

     sudo apt-get install testdisk
     

   • On Fedora:

     sudo dnf install testdisk
     

   • On macOS (using Homebrew):

     brew install testdisk
     

2. Run TestDisk: Open a terminal and start TestDisk with superuser privileges:

   sudo testdisk
   

3. Create a Log File: When prompted, choose to create a new log file, append to an existing one, or not use a log file.

4. Select the Disk: Use the arrow keys to select the disk from which you want to recover files and press Enter.

5. Select Partition Table Type: TestDisk usually detects the partition table type automatically. If you're unsure, you can accept the default option.

6. Analyze the Disk:

   • Choose Analyze to search for lost partitions.
   • Select Quick Search to start the search. This will scan for lost partitions.

7. Deeper Search (if needed): If the quick search does not find your lost files or partitions, you can select Deeper Search for a more thorough scan.

8. List Files:

   • Once partitions are found, navigate to the partition you want to recover files from and select it.
   • Choose the option to List files. This will display the files and directories in that partition.

9. Select Files to Recover:

   • Use the arrow keys to navigate through the list of files.
   • To select files for recovery, highlight the file and press the : key. A * will appear next to the selected files.

10. Copy Selected Files:

    • After selecting the files you want to recover, press the C key to copy them.
    • You will be prompted to choose a destination for the recovered files. Navigate to the desired directory (make sure it's on a different drive or partition to avoid overwriting data) and press C again to confirm.

11. Exit TestDisk: After the recovery process is complete, you can exit TestDisk by selecting the appropriate option.

Important Considerations:

• Always work on a copy of the disk if possible to prevent further data loss.
• Recovery success depends on how much the disk has been used since the files were deleted.
• Read the documentation or help files within TestDisk for more detailed instructions and options.