Could i still retrieve files after reformat?

Question

Ok so back when i was 16 years old i reformatted my computer. that was the first time i tried reformatting it. (take note i only had drive c then. there was no partition) After that i was exploring the new drive c (still no partition) and found a folder which contained ALL of my files.

Can i do this again? I forgot how to do that before. my friend said maybe i didn't reformat the drive. maybe he was right. But how come all the applications i've installed were gone but the files were there? how can i do that again. there's a virus on my computer and it's okay for me to reformat. I just need to save some important pictures and it really means a lot to the family if i retrieve it. Just the pics. Its been 2 years since i did that and i totally forgot.

Can anybody please help me?

Answer 1

Sorry I am not actually answering ur question this time, but do u remember me...I have answered ur question once and now I want to contact u but you donot allow email...so is there any way through which I can get in touch with u?

Answer 2

You can try this software FinalData Premium. It can be downloaded from download.com. There is a free trial.

http://www.download.com/FinalData-Premiu...

Answer 3

Don't reformat,get rid of the virus and/or spyware

Answer 4

You can if you didn't overwrite it with some other file, you will need some Data recovery software, http://www.r-tt.com/; http://www.recovermyfiles.com/

ERD Commander is another one though that Program is hard to come by.

Update:

if a Virus is restarting your PC you may need to use a live CD of some sort, ERD Commander would be one, you may want to try Safe Mode, and if you are able try to install Comodo Firewall Pro (Free) http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/, it should allow you to regain controll of your PC Providing you tell Comodo Firewall to stop that program.  You should also get Avira Antivirus or even Avast.  Avira has a Recovery CD http://www.free-av.com/en/tools/12/avira... which you could make on a different PC then Boot your infected PC with the Avira CD.  Avira is one of the Top AVs out there and they have a personal version.  Give it a try.

Answer 5

Your friend is right, you ddnt format. You just installed a fresh copy of windows but with the option of saving your documents.

Boot from the operating sstm disc, on the first screen press "Enter">> F8.

When it shows you that you've got a version of XP installed on your harddrive (im assuming thats what you are using), there will be 2 options the "Repair" and "Install a fresh copy". Choose the "Install fresh copy" and follow the steps. Just continue even when it says it doesnt recommend installing multiple operating systems on one partition.

You should get to where it gives you the option of formatting using NTFS, FAT, etc. It should also provide an option that says "Leave current file system intact (no changes)". Choose this option and after that there will be another option of creating a folder for your documents. Take this option and it'll be ok.

Dont forget that you need a product key ready. You'll find the folder in the "Documents and settings" using the same user account name that you are currently using.

Hope the info is enough, good luck!