How to Recover Data from Scratched or Damaged CD or DVD

The CD or DVD is something that I am very fond of as a member of the 90s generation. Whether it was a favorite movie, song, or some critical data files, I used to store them reliably in a Blu-ray disk. However, the disks might get damaged sometimes

Here I talk about How to Recover Data from Scratched or Damaged CD or DVD. I also focus on how to avoid the issue and resolve it.

Why it happens

Your computer’s CD or DVD drive uses lasers to read data from the disk. If the laser cannot somehow pass through the optical disk, you won’t be able to read or access the stored data.

Avoiding the Issue

Protect the disks from scratches

A good idea is to keep all your precious disks in a case or store them separately in a sleeve pouch. This will ensure that there are no possible scratches on the optical surface that might render the stored data unreadable. Also, please don’t keep the disks in someplace too humid or too freezing as it might reduce the durability of the CD or DVD.

Clean the disks frequently

Remember to clean off any physical dirt or lint from the disk’s optical surface after each use. It would be best if you were careful not to leave any unwanted fingerprints that might damage the disk. Use a soft cloth, preferably linen, to wipe off the disk before storing it again.

Clean the laser reader with cleaning liquid

The hardware, or laser reader, in your computer’s disk drive can get smudgy too. It’s wise to pour a little bit of professional-grade cleaning liquid on top of a Q-tip or cotton bud and use it to wipe the laser reader gently. Make sure not to end up damaging the hardware during the process.

Manual Repairing

Although it’s not recommended, resort to this method only as the last possible option. It’s very risky as it might permanently damage your CD or CVD if not done right.

• Apply a thin coating of toothpaste or Vaseline on the visibly damaged part of the disk.
• Use a lint-free cloth to wipe it off immediately.
• Repeat the process until you achieve a flatter surface

Repairing using Software

The easiest solution is to use Wondershare’sindustry-leading data recovery solution. Just follow these steps:

• Launch the program and locate your desired disk drive
• Press Start
• Wait for the scanning process to be done
• Press Recover and choose a directory to save the recovered files

Bottom Line

That wraps it up! You should now be able to enjoy your favorite files from your damaged CD or DVD without any issues.