How to recover lost data from Linux operating system

Linux operating systems support a wide range of file systems that include Ext2/Ext3/Ext4, XFS ReiserFS, JFS (JFS2). These file systems differ in their structures and performance parameters which influence possibility and quality of data recovery. 

Success of data recovery is also affected by the following factors:

1. the time your PC operates after the data loss. The less your computer works after the incident the highest chances for successful data recovery you have.
2. partition fragmentation degree. The higher the partition fragmentation degree is, the more difficult it'll be to recover a file completely.

Data recovery from a storage with physical damages may cause permanent data loss. In this case we recommend that you not recover lost data by yourself and rather take the hard drive to a specialized data recovery center.

Instructions:

1. As soon as you discovered loss of your data you should stop all read/write operations to the partition of the hard drive or the storage you're going to recover your data from. Read/write operations include programs installation, copying, saving and download from Internet. Note that start of certain already installed programs may also cause writing to the disk if these programs use the disk to save their settings or other files such as cash browser, media players play lists, games savings etc.
2. You should immediately unmount the partition or folder with lost data. This precaution will let you avoid possible overwriting of lost information.
3. Draw up a list of lost files you're going to recover. Note major file descriptions (name, type, size, last saved time). Even if recovery of file name wouldn't be successful such kind of information will help you find necessary file.
4. Select the partition where you'll conduct recovery of lost information from. This should be intact partition where no data disappeared.
5. Download UFS Explorer Standard Recovery for Linux and install it to the partition you selected for recovery operations.
6. Start the software with superuser rights required to get access to disks.
7. Please read the manual carefully.
8. Copy recovered files to another partition or storage or network disk.

Hint: If your data are lost from a root directory we recommend that you use EmergencyRecovery CD to ensure safe and secure data recovery environment.

Warning: Never write, install or copy anything to the partition or storage where the data loss occurred. Otherwise, you may cause overwriting and permanent loss of important information.