Accidently Removed VMDK file

[k_Raju@vsp]

Hi All,

Can you please guide me How do i Restore the VMDK file, This Morning I downloaded Oracle Virtual box and start using by Creating a Virtual Machine browsing my VMDK file in my External Hard drive, After using I Clicked the Remove Option button in Oracle Virtual box then it prompts me "Remove Only" and "Delete All" and "Cancel All" buttons. I Accidentally clicked the Delete all button. I lost the VMDK file, I cross checked the trash too but of no use.

Here I am Requesting since because I lost the Data of my Last 3 Years Hard work, Can any one please guide me how to recover my VMDK file. I am ready to purchase if any online tools available to recover.

Thanks
Raju

[loukingjr]

This is why backups are important. There are many file recovery tools available. Just do a Google search for them for your particular operating system. They're not always successful especially with large files.

[mpack]

Three years of hard work without a backup? I wish I didn't believe that.

You need an "undelete" tool for your host OS, but I'm afraid that is beyond the scope of these forums.

In order to delete your VMDK you had to take the following steps:

1. Choose to have only one copy on a removable drive.
2. Mount that single copy in a VM, i.e. without copying it first.
3. Choose to remove the VM.
4. Answer "Delete all files" when offered the choice of "Remove only" vs "Delete all files" vs "Cancel".

OTOH, I have argued in the past that files outside the VM folder should not be deleted, that this behaviour may not be expected. However, my opinion was not popular.

[mpack]

They're not always successful especially with large files.

On the other hand, I'd say you stand a better chance when the file is on an external drive. Hopefully the files are less scattered, less messed about with. Also the filesystem may be simpler.

[loukingjr]

Actually an "Are you sure" warning when someone chooses "Delete all files" might be appropriate

[k_Raju@vsp]

Hi All,

Thanks to all of you guys responded for my quote. Guys I'm loosing hopes with your all comments is it not possible to recover??? I'm litterly crying i lost my hard work why can't i saw the vmdk file in my trash folder??. Yes it's true file size is too big might be more than 4 gigabytes. I am using previously VM ware software for me of no issues today morning i tried using oracle virtual box don't know it happened accidentally clicked the delete all button.Thing is i have all the biztalk solutions I didn't loose the solutions I lost VMDK file I can see one more file available with extension "VMEM" will it be helpful??

Can anyone at least guide me is it possible to create an VMDK file and restore it. i am waiting for your valuable comments.

Thanks
Raju

[loukingjr]

You might be able to recover it if you find a good file recovery program for your OS as I mentioned.

[loukingjr]

If you are running Windows, Recuva is a good free file recovery program.
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/filerecov ... review.htm

[loukingjr]

It should go without saying but whatever you do, don't write anything to the drive you are trying to recover the file from. If you already have, the chance to recover it drops exponentially.