NTFS file system is one of the most used and trusted file system for installation of the Windows operating system. Being a journaling file system, it uses NTFS Log ($Logfile) to maintain a record of the metadata changes to the volume. Though superior to FAT file system in many ways, it is not preferred by many. But despite all the improvements over its predecessor, it has its own flaws. One of the major problems is, it may not load and prevent the operating system to be mounted. Such a situation may lead to file inaccessibility, thus calling for extensive NTFS file recovery steps.

Suppose that one fine day, while trying to boot your NTFS formatted Windows XP system, you get an error message, instead of the "Starting Windows" Splash Screen:

'Error loading operating system'

After getting this error message, you find all the data stored in your NTFS formatted computer system inaccessible. Generally such problems are due to damage to the partition, problems in BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) of the system. Let us try to fix one at a time, to chalk it out, and thus resolve the problem.

• You should start with updating your BIOS. This will help rid you of the problem. • If it doesn't, check the settings of CMOS, and make sure that it detects the drive. Changes the 'Access Mode' of the hard drive to Large or LBA (Logical Block Addressing). This should address the problem and get you going. • But if it doesn't, then it is your NTFS partition that has become inaccessible, or is damaged. In such a situation, you will need to reformat the partition.

Obviously, this will delete all the data. But, with an updated backup with you for NTFS data recovery, you'll have nothing to worry. But even if you do not have a backup, by simply installing a NTFS partition recovery tool, you will be able to recover all your inaccessible data. But be careful with the software you choose. The best way is to download the trial version of it, to be able to analyze its features and recovery capabilities.

Stellar Phoenix NTFS Data Recovery software is a reliable tool for recovery of all deleted, inaccessible or lost data from any NTFS formatted partition. Compatible with Windows 7, Vista, 2003, XP and 2000, this NTFS data recovery tool extends various features including hard drive cloning, hard drive imaging, file filter, file mask and save scan. With support for 185 different file formats, this tool can recover data from any kind of NTFS formatted storage media.