Introduction
Data stored in the cloud can sometimes be accidentally deleted or become inaccessible. As cloud storage becomes more prevalent, data recovery from these services is an important issue for many users. In 2024, there will be several methods available to attempt recovering lost cloud data. Being aware of these options can help users respond effectively when critical files go missing from cloud storage.
Check The Cloud Service’s Tools First
Before trying any third party solutions, check to see if the cloud provider offers data recovery tools. Most major services like Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, and Apple iCloud have options to restore deleted files and previous versions of documents.
For example, Google Drive retains deleted files in its trash folder for 30 days. Simply looking in the trash may restore a accidentally deleted file. Google also keeps revision history of documents, so past versions can be restored as well. Always exhaust a cloud service’s own recovery options before trying more extreme measures.
Use Backup Copies If Available
Many cloud services offer ways to backup data to external drives or additional cloud locations. If backup copies exist, restoring from them can retrieve lost cloud files. For example, services like Backblaze and Carbonite create cloud backups of other cloud storage data.
Alternatively, users may synchronize cloud storage to local external drives. If those local drives are still available, they can restore missing cloud data. Checking all possible backup locations should be one of the first steps when trying to recover lost cloud data.
Utilize Data Recovery Software
If native cloud provider tools come up empty, third party data recovery software represents the next option to try. Software like Disk Drill and Ontrack EasyRecovery include support for recovering data from major cloud services like iCloud Drive, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
These tools scan cloud storage locations and reconstruct deleted files from residual data left behind. This requires logging into the cloud service through the software and allowing it access. Outcomes vary based on how much of the deleted data can still be pulled from the cloud servers.
Contact The Cloud Provider’s Support
If DIY software recovery options fail, getting help from the cloud company’s customer support is the next step. The provider may have access to backups and logs that end users do not. Explaining the issue and providing as many details as possible allows their technical staff to potentially locate recoverable data.
However, support teams typically focus on restoring access rather than recovering specific lost files. But for critical data it’s worth opening a ticket and escalating it to see if internal backups can rescue deleted files.
Use Data Recovery Services For Critical Cases
For business-critical cloud data that all else fails to recover, professional data recovery services represent a last resort option. Companies like DriveSavers, Gillware, and Secure Data Recovery can conduct advanced procedures like:
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Cloud storage disk imaging – Creating full byte-for-byte clones of cloud servers to extract data.
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Cloud log analysis – Reviewing internal cloud provider logs for traces of deleted files.
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Cloud cache scanning – Checking for fragments of lost data in cloud caching systems.
These techniques can potentially recover even permanently deleted files, but at a significant cost. Professional cloud data recovery services typically start around $1000 or more. Still, for irreplaceable data, this expensive process may be worth the expense.
Take Proactive Measures To Avoid Data Loss
While the above methods can help after cloud data goes missing, it’s much better to avoid deletion and loss in the first place. Some best practices include:
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Enable version history – Most cloud services allow restoring previous versions of files. Turn this on to rollback changes.
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Use multiple backups – Backup cloud data locally and to additional cloud locations.
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Be careful with deletion – Double check before permanently deleting files. Some cloud providers offer limited windows to reverse deletions.
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Review sharing settings – Make sure you are the only one who can delete or modify critical cloud data.
No recovery solution is perfect. But being aware of the range of options available in 2024 can help maximize the chances of getting lost cloud files back. Careful planning and prevention will always be better than any recovery attempt. Know the risks and take steps to avoid permanent data loss.
