Abby Haines updated on May 31, 2019 to File Recovery | How-to Articles
Follow the two methods to fix 'can't read from the source file or disk' error in Windows 10/8/7. If you get this message while copying, moving or deleting files from PC to external storage devices such as USB/SD etc, relax. You can regain access to your data and fix 'can't read from source file/disk' error here now.
"My internal hard drive is full and it dramatically slows down my Windows 10 laptop. Then, I bought a new external hard drive and wanted to transfer some data from the PC to the new drive. So, I could free up more space. But when it gets to a certain point, it always says "Can't read from the source file or disk" and name a certain file that can't be read. Is there any way to fix the issue?"
Many users have reported that they got "Can't read from the source file or disk" error message while copying, deleting or moving files from one location to another. For example from a PC to an external hard drive/SD card, USB flash drive, etc or vice verse in Windows 10/8/7. If you happened to be annoyed by this issue, please don't worry! The solution below may help you.
Your Reliable Choice - EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
After retrieving all your files, you can try disk management tool to format your external hard drive, SD card or USB flash drive to permanently remove "Can't read from the source file or disk" error message. It easy and just takes simple steps!
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Frequently Asked Questions
"EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard is the best we've seen. It's far from perfect, partly because today's advanced disk technology makes data-recovery more difficult than it was with the simpler technology of the past, but it's fast and efficient..." —PCMag
"The first thing you'll notice about EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Pro is that its interface is very clear and uncluttered, with only a small collection of self-explanatory controls. You won't find lots of extra options hidden in a system of hidden menus, either; what you see really is what you get." —techradar
"Recover lost files, even after deleting a partition or formatting your drive." —Macworld
It is recommended to check the version installed is Free or Trial because they are different versions.
Trial has data preview function but cannot save any files, while the Free version enables to recover 2 GB files. The default free space is 500 MB and you may share the product on social media to get another 1.5 GB.
A file is saved as 2 parts on the storage device: directory info (which is comprised by file name, time stamp and size info, etc.) and data content.
If the files with original file names and folder structures cannot be opened, one possible reason is the corrupted directory info. There is still a chance to recover the data content with the RAW Recovery method in our software.
The storage structure of the lost files would be altered or damaged by any changes on the drive. If you save the recovered files back to the same drive, the original data structures and data content would be corrupted or overwritten, which causes permanent data loss. So you should prepare another disk to save the files.
The Free version helps you save 2GB files to better verify the recovery quality of our product before purchase.
It strongly depends on the capacity of your hard drive and the performance of your computer. As reference,most drive recoveries can be completed in around 10 to 12 hours for a 1-TB healthy hard drive in general conditions.
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About Data Recovery Wizard
It's super easy to recover 250+ types of files after deletion, disk formatting and virus infection. Click the links and compare the difference of each version.