How to Recover Data from a Mac SSD Drive

Ihor Zamozhnii
Data Recovery
Published in
5 min readSep 18, 2024
How to Recover Data from a Mac SSD Drive

Hey everyone, I accidentally deleted some critical files from my Mac’s SSD drive, and I’m desperate to recover them. Does anyone have a reliable method or tool for Mac data recovery? Thanks in advance!

How to Recover Data from a Mac SSD Drive

Hey there, sorry to hear about your accidental file deletion. It can be terrifying, I totally get that. But don’t worry; Mac data recovery is feasible. Here are some methods to help you out. Let’s get your precious files back!

First Steps: Don’t Panic and Stop Using the SSD

When you delete files, they’re not immediately erased from the drive. Instead, the system marks the space occupied by those files as free. This means that new data might overwrite your old files. So, stop using the SSD immediately to maximize your chances of recovery.

Exploring Built-in Mac Tools

macOS has some built-in tools that can help recover files. Here’s how to use them.

1. Check the Trash Bin

Your first stop should be the Trash Bin. Often, deleted files are still there.

  • Open the Trash Bin on your desktop.
  • Look for the files you lost.
  • If you find them, right-click and select ‘Put Back’.

2. Time Machine Backup

If you’ve been using Time Machine to back up your files, you’re in luck.

  • Connect your Time Machine backup drive to your Mac.
  • Open the folder where the lost files were stored.
  • Click the Time Machine icon in the menu bar and select ‘Enter Time Machine’.
  • Use the timeline on the right edge to locate a backup from before the files were deleted.
  • Find the files and click ‘Restore’.

Using Third-Party Software

When built-in tools don’t cut it, third-party software can be a lifesaver.

3. Disk Drill

One reliable tool for Mac data recovery is Disk Drill.

Disk Drill Screenshot

Here’s how to use it to recover your files.

  • Download and install Disk Drill from their official website.
  • Launch the application and select the SSD drive you want to scan.
  • Click ‘Recover’ to start the scanning process. The app will search for lost files.
  • When the scan is complete, browse the list of found files. Navigate through different categories to locate what you need.
  • Check the boxes next to files you wish to recover and click ‘Recover’ again. Choose a save location for these files (preferably not the same SSD to prevent data overwrite).

Disk Drill is particularly powerful because it supports various file systems and provides a preview before recovery, increasing the chance of successful recovery.

DIY Methods: Advanced Users Only!

For the brave and tech-savvy, some more advanced methods might do the trick.

4. Use Terminal Commands

Terminal can sometimes restore files from the trash, even after they’ve been emptied. Use with caution!

  • Open Terminal (Applications > Utilities > Terminal).
  • Type: cd .Trash and press Enter.
  • Type: mv [filename] ../ (Replace [filename] with your actual file name) and press Enter.
  • Your file should now be in your user directory.

5. Target Disk Mode

If everything else fails, you can use Target Disk Mode to recover data by connecting your Mac to another Mac.

  • Shut down your Mac.
  • Connect both Macs using a Thunderbolt or FireWire cable.
  • Press the power button and immediately hold the ‘T’ key until the Target Disk Mode icon appears.
  • The connected Mac should appear as an external drive on the working Mac. Navigate here to find your files.

Professional Help

If your data is highly critical and you’re unable to recover it on your own, consider seeking professional data recovery services. Sometimes, the experts can bring back what software cannot.

Final Thoughts

Accidental deletions can be a real heartache, but with a calm approach and the right tools, you stand a good chance of getting your data back. Start with the built-in solutions and then move on to power tools like Disk Drill. If all else fails, professional help is always an option. Best of luck retrieving your files!

FAQ

What are the first steps to take if you suspect data loss on a Mac SSD drive?

Immediately cease using the Mac to prevent overwriting lost data. Disconnect the drive if possible or shut down the computer. Do not reinstall macOS or other software, as they may overwrite your data.

Is there built-in software on macOS that can help recover lost data from an SSD?

macOS includes the Disk Utility tool, which can help fix minor disk issues. However, it’s not specifically designed for data recovery. For professional recovery, you might need external software or a recovery service.

What role does the TRIM function play in SSD data recovery on a Mac?

TRIM helps maintain SSD performance by clearing unused data cells, which can complicate data recovery. Once TRIM has run, it may be impossible to retrieve deleted data because the cells are entirely wiped.

Can third-party software help recover data from a Mac SSD drive?

Yes, third-party software such as Disk Drill and Stellar Data Recovery can often retrieve lost files. Always use reputable software and follow instructions carefully to avoid further data damage.

Are there any hardware-related steps to take for Mac SSD recovery?

For hardware issues, consider using an external casing to connect the SSD to another computer. This method can help recover data if the Mac itself has failed but the drive is still functional.

Is professional data recovery a viable option for Mac SSD data loss?

Professional data recovery services can be very effective, especially for severe data loss or hardware failures. Experts can often retrieve data that regular software cannot. Visit Ontrack or DriveSavers for specialized services.

How can Time Machine backups assist in data recovery from a Mac SSD?

Time Machine automatically backs up your files, so you can restore lost data by accessing these backups. Regular backups ensure minimal data loss, making it an effective preventive measure.

What precautions should you take to avoid future data loss on a Mac SSD?

Regularly back up your data using Time Machine or another backup solution. Avoid physical damage to your Mac, keep macOS and software updated, and consider using cloud storage for important files.

When should you seek professional help for Mac SSD data recovery?

If the SSD has suffered physical damage or software solutions fail, professional help is advisable. They have specialized tools and knowledge to handle complex issues that typical users cannot resolve independently.

Can you recover data from a Mac SSD if the drive is encrypted?

Recovery from an encrypted drive is possible if you have the encryption key or password. Decryption is a crucial step before any data recovery process can commence.

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