Hopefully, if you encounter problems with your computer’s hard drive, free hard drive recovery can be obtained through the manufacturer’s warranty. Sometimes, however, the manufacturer’s warranty has expired and you must resort to other solutions. Many makers of hard drive recovery software offer free evaluations and some even offer free recovery software. However, you must be very selective in evaluating the promises of the various free hard drive recovery services.

Some recovery offers refer only to the company’s policy of offering a free quote for recovery services based on a form which the user fills out and returns via e-mail. Services such as this rely upon the user to self diagnose the problem. If you fail to fully document the problems encountered you may end up with a partial solution and incomplete service and incorrect price estimates.

Other free hard drive recovery offerings go further by proposing to evaluate the problem themselves via a virtual or remote access investigation of the problem or by having the system or equipment shipped to them. These services are particularly good because a trained recovery specialist will diagnose the problem. Many companies offer free hard drive recovery for a limited period of time or as part of an introductory package.  Services such as these might require that the user sign up for a package which includes free hard drive recovery or commit to a contract of further service, warranty or maintenance contract.

There are also demo disks of free hard drive recovery software available. These disks are sometimes used as loss leaders to entice computer users in for other value added services. Shareware is also a valid option to obtain recovery software.  You must be extremely careful if you choose to use shareware for your data recovery.  Shareware by its nature is unlicensed and therefore may be defective or contain a virus or other malware.  It also usually has a disclaimer stating that if it does not work and renders your device unrecoverable, the shareware author is in no way liable.  However, properly investigated, shareware can be a useful and cost effective method for obtaining free hard drive recovery.

During the recent tragedies of Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita, several companies have demonstrated their compassion for the hurricanes’ victims by offering free hard drive recovery evaluations and free shipping of damaged equipment.

As with any other service, you should closely check the fine print on any offer of free hard drive recovery.