Saving Files From A Failing Hard Drive

[zoobooboozoo]

Hello there.

I had problems with my main Hard Drive failing.

The main goal is to save the files, since I realize it's not likely I can save the disk.
I though about the option of putting some Linux live CD and copying the files that are still intact to another portable Hard Drive.
The question is: should I try and recover the hard drive/files with some kind software before I do that? maybe that way I can get more file in proper condition? and if yes, what software would you recommend?

 

[masterjaw]

How did you know that it is already failing? Can you still access the files in the drive?

 

[zoobooboozoo]

This disk had the OS on it(WinXP) and one day it started freezing all of the sudden and sometimes just crash during the windows loading screen etc.

I tried formatting and reinstalling windows and after a day it started all over again.

 

[masterjaw]

I see. That might be a clear sign of a failing hard drive. Have you checked the S.M.A.R.T. status? I also got this problem last month and I checked my drive status and it is already set as bad. Then I copied all my the important files to an external HDD / separate HDD.

 

[zoobooboozoo]

Yeah, that's what I figured. but what recovery software should I use? or it doesn't matter and I should just copy the files right away?

 

[zoobooboozoo]

a lil' off topic don't you think?

 

[masterjaw]

If you still can access the files then just copy them to an external drive. No need for recovery software.