The meaning of data recovery has changed drastically over the last ten years. A decade ago, data recovery was primarily related to rescuing data that was locked away in a physically damaged hard drive. While recovery of data from fried or frozen hard disks still accounts for over 50% of data recovery processes, a large portion of the need to recover lost files is also caused by what is known as a logic crash. While it is possible for an eager do-it-yourselfer to retrieve files lost through such simple operations as accidental deletion, the average computer owner does not have the access or patience required to complete such a task. This leaves a personal computer owner with two options, each of which meet at the same point. In the case of a physically damaged hard disk, hard drive recovery entails temporarily repairing the drive, so as to access the stored files using data recovery software. This operation cannot be done by private parties, as it must be accomplished in a dust-free and climate controlled green room. In situations where a drive has not physically crashed, but has suffered a logic failure, the first step is unneeded, and all that is required is that the hard drive be connected to an operational PC and the files in it accessed through a third party data recovery program. These two options, in whole or in part, are what is known as data recovery services. When referred to as disk recovery, the process usually includes disassembly and repair.
As stated, hard drive recovery, when dealing with a logic crash, can be accomplished by the end-user. But that same user seldom has made available the connectability and external storage needed to transfer and save the rescued data. Data recovery services are taken to a higher level in the form of RAID recovery. RAID systems are huge arrays of combined hard disks, programmed to work in an overlapping failsafe of data access design. These systems are primarily used by large corporations, such as banks or other businesses with many outlets, each simultaneously placing demand on the system for information. RAID recovery can never be attempted by an individual. Not only is the need for a sterile disassembly environment essential, but also a technician working on a RAID system must have both the ability to mechanically repair the device and intellectually repair the operational program.