Search:

Causes of Data Loss and How to Avoid Them (Track This Article)

There are various reasons which can lead to the breakdown of the basic technology behind a storage media, thereby leading to the loss of data. It would be interesting to discuss the various causes due to which the data can be lost.

Physical Damage

Storage media often get physically damaged due to mishandling or vibrations. The data storing layer of a CD or a DVD may get scratched or damaged due to rough handling or exposure to heat and moisture. The internal components of a hard disk are susceptible to a crash or failure due to aging or improper usage. Mechanical failure is one of the major causes that may lead to data loss.

Electronic Failure

A number of storage media like hard disks and USB Flash Drives are fitted with several electronic components. Any damage to these electronic components will inevitably lead to the loss of data. For example, every hard drive is fitted with an electronic controller board. Any damage to this electronic controller board due to exposure to abnormal temperatures, power spike or some other reason may cause the hard drive to fail.

Logical Failure

Logical failure mostly occurs due to damage to a file system. It may happen due to various reasons such as an electrostatic discharge, a malware attack or deletion of important files and folders by mistake. In case of a logical failure, sometimes it is possible to recover the lost data by using DIY data recovery software. However, if the problem is acute, it may require the services of some data recovery expert.

General Preservation of Storage Media

As we have seen that storage media are prone to electronic or mechanical failure due to a variety of reasons such as improper storage, overuse, inadequate maintenance, sabotage, natural disasters, human error etc., it is vital to follow certain general safety precautions, so far as their preservation is concerned. It will not only prolong the life of these storage devices, but will protect them against failure or data loss.

Improper storage is one of the major causes of physical and electronic failure. Care should be taken to maintain proper temperature and humidity around storage devices. Storage media should be protected against exposure to dust, light, magnetic fields and fumes. Large and rapid fluctuation in temperature and power supply should be avoided. Storage media should be kept in their original cases and must be handled with care. Eating, drinking and smoking in storage areas should be discouraged.

Logical failure is far more common then physical or electronic failure. Power outages are one of the main causes of logical failure. They prevent the file system structures from being properly written to the storage media. Another serious cause of logical failure is electrostatic discharge. Hence proper care must be taken to protect your storage devices against power surges and electrostatic discharge.

Media Specific Guidelines

Hard Disks

Efficient antivirus software must be installed in the computers, which must be updated on a regular basis. Hard drives should be protected against dust and electrostatic discharge. Care should be taken to place the hard drives in a room with proper humidity and ventilation. Always use UPS and surge protectors.

Optical Disks

Optical disks should be handled carefully by the edges only. Avoid using any stick-on labels on the CDs or DVDs. Optical disks should always be stored in a clean, dry and dust free environment. Exposure to light should be avoided.

Magnetic Tapes

Magnetic tapes should be handled with care and protected against dust, fumes, fingerprints, pollutants, etc. Any exposure to light and humidity should be avoided. When not in use, tapes should be placed back on the storage shelf in an upright position.

USB Flash Drives

Before plugging in a USB drive, take care that the USB port is properly wired and has a proper voltage. USB drives should be protected against static electricity. Always use the safety switching off option before unplugging a USB drive. Carry USB flash drives with care and avoid rough handling.

Proper care of your storage media will protect them against data loss and will also prolong their life span. However, in case of any serious data loss situation, one should always solicit the services of some good data recovery company.

Article Castle - Articles Resources: http://www.articlecastle.com

James Walsh is a freelance writer and copy editor. If you are concerned about data loss and would like more information on Data Recovery see www.fields-data-recovery.co.uk

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated