File recovery problems

[PlutonianEmpire]

I've tried to use PCI File Recovery, but it's refusing to scan for the files.

Anyone know any good file recovery programs that work with vista?

I've tried Handy Recovery, but the freeware version expired long ago, and I absolutely refuse pay. I have my reasons.

 

[mdwh]

I've not used it myself, but a free open source one is at http://www.cgsecurity.org/wiki/PhotoRec .

 

[aimeeandbeatles]

Recuva I've found to be a good free one, although sometimes it doesn't work.

There's also a list here:
http://www.thefreecountry.com/utilities/datarecovery.shtml

I highly recommend to use a program you put on USB as if you install, it may overwrite.

 

[peter grimes]

To follow up on the necessity of good backup habits, there's a common phrase that escapes me.

But it's something like 1 hourly backup on the machine, 1 daily backup off the machine, and 1 weekly backup off-site.

Which reminds me I haven't done an off site backup in a couple of months.... And our crock pot is cooking away while I'm at work!