The first thing to do when you perceive that there is trouble in your server , hard disk, or RAID health is to stay calm and not facilitate further loss by pressing all keys and codes. Take a deep breath and decide on whether you are going to do the data protection and recovery yourself or seek the help of specialists. The key to preventing loss of computer data is to create back ups like clockwork.

Data recovery, although possible, hardly ever promises 100% recovery of lost data, here are a few suggestions:

1. Use proven data recovery software and try and retrieve lost files.

2. If you suspect a hardware collapse just pull the plug and call for professional help. Do not try and shut down the system or save any files.

3. Listen to the computer and see if you can detect any abnormal sounds.

4. Connect the faulty disks to another computer and use the disk as a slave to try and recover lost files.

5. Consider investing in data recovery software. Surf the World Wide Web and locate a reliable data recovery and protection service. Be sure to check their credentials.

6. If a drive is damaged do not run defragmenters or volume repair utilities.

7. In case the ruined drive has OS systems on it get recovery systems that have boot functions. Once the files become visible copy them onto disks or external drives.

8. Never dry a wet hard drive with a dryer it will damage the system completely.

9. Clean up the system by deleting unwanted files and software.

10. Install protection systems like firewalls and anti-virus scanners.

As far as possible never drop a drive down. Use only recommended hardware and software. Beware of free downloads. Set up an infallible back up system.

Protect your data against loss by:

1. Conducting weekly backups that are offsite. Remote data back ups minimizes data loss.

2. Use Storage area networks or SANs.

3. Add surge protectors to your computer system . This will protect the delicate equipment.

4. Connect the whole system through an UPS or uninterrupted power supply system.

5. Install anti-virus software and firewalls.

6. Insure your hardware.

7. Follow the rules of safe computer use like never opening attachments from unknown sources and protecting your system from phising by avoiding free downloads and so on.

Take the ultimate step in protecting your data by training all employees if you are a business and if you are an individual then stay abreast of recent trends in computer protection and data recovery.