Advanced level · Module 1 of 6 · 22 guided hours
Data Recovery and Secure Disposal
Recover lost data responsibly, handle failing drives correctly and wipe storage securely.
Learning objectives
- Recover deleted files with appropriate tools
- Handle failing drives without making things worse
- Know when to escalate to specialists
- Wipe and dispose of storage securely
Topics
- deleted file recovery
- failing drives
- imaging before recovery
- escalation
- secure wiping
- client data ethics
Lessons
-
Lesson 1 Recovering Deleted Files
Get back files that were deleted or lost from working drives.
Recycle Bin and backupsprevious versionsrecovery softwaredo not write to the drive
-
Lesson 2 Failing Drives
Protect data on drives that are starting to fail.
SMART warningsclicking and slownessimagingminimising stress
-
Lesson 3 When to Escalate
Recognise when a recovery is beyond workshop tools.
physical damageclean-room recoverycosts and chancesclient advice
-
Lesson 4 Secure Wiping and Client Data Ethics
Protect clients' data when devices are reused, sold or disposed of.
secure eraseencryption and resetphysical destructionconfidentiality
Practical activity
Recover deleted files from prepared lab drives, image a 'failing' drive before recovery and securely wipe drives for reuse.
Expected outcomes
- Responsible recovery practice
- Secure handling of client data
Assessment
Recovery and wiping practicals with written procedures.
Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.