File Recovery After Windows Failure

[luxor]

The moral of this story is to be constantly backing up your files... but, of course, I had neglected that for a few weeks and disaster struck - Microsoft installed fourteen 'updates' and now Windows will not load on my main machine.

Potentially weeks of work were lost. However, I was able to find a workaround to recover the files before reloading Windows. I'll post it here in case it is useful to someone in the future.

Basically, there are two stages:
First; you need to put a simple Linux operating system on a USB stick (or any storage device). (Don't panic about Linux - I'd never used it before, but you get a straightforward, Windows-like, Desktop).
Second; you need to boot your machine from the USB stick instead of your hard drive.

Creating the Universal USB Installer:

http://www.pendrivelinux.com/universal- ... -as-1-2-3/

Changing the Boot Sequence:
Google 'change boot sequence' or 'change boot order'. You will find plenty of links.

If you get stuck, don't panic or give up on your files - any computer enthusiast will be able to help out without you spending money in a store.

This procedure should enable file recovery where Windows starts to load but doesn't finish - i.e. a software problem. It will not work miracles on failed hardware.

EDIT: Not sure how easy it would be to hack the Linux operating system; maybe best to disconnect your broadband while you work transferring your files.

[BarbaraW]

Thank you for the reminder to back up my files after working on my family tree stuff all weekend. Now backed up to an external HD.

[MaryA]

Timely reminder for all of us! thank you and glad you have managed to restore everything.