.BAK File Recovery

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .BAK file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

BAK File Recovery

What is a .BAK file?

A BAK file is a backup of the Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox bookmarks file, which can be used to replace saved bookmarks in case the main bookmarks file becomes corrupt. It is automatically generated by the Chrome or Firefox web browser and is typically named bookmarks.bak

What Are Common Causes of ".BAK" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes for ".BAK" files to be lost or fail:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".BAK" files while cleaning up their system or organizing files, leading to their loss.
  2. System crashes: If a system crash occurs while a ".BAK" file is being created or accessed, it can result in file corruption or loss.
  3. Hardware failure: Issues with the hard drive, such as bad sectors or mechanical failures, can lead to the loss of ".BAK" files.
  4. Software issues: Errors or bugs in backup software can cause ".BAK" files to fail or become inaccessible.
  5. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and corrupt ".BAK" files, making them unusable or causing their loss.
  6. Power outages: Sudden power outages or improper shutdowns can interrupt the backup process and result in ".BAK" file loss or corruption.
  7. Human error: Mistakes made by users, such as accidentally formatting the wrong drive or overwriting ".BAK" files, can lead to their loss.
  8. File system errors: Issues with the file system, such as file system corruption or disk errors, can cause ".BAK" files to become lost or unreadable.
  9. Software upgrades or updates: Sometimes, upgrading or updating software can lead to compatibility issues, resulting in the loss or failure of ".BAK" files.
  10. Data transfer errors: Errors during the transfer or copying of ".BAK" files can cause data loss or corruption.

How to recover lost ".BAK" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".BAK" file may be deleted.

Go to view
🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".BAK" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".BAK" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".BAK" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software
  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".BAK" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type
  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored
  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan
  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery
  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".BAK" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo bookmarks Backup File image file file?

Programs that open ".BAK" files

Windows
Google Chrome Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox Mozilla Firefox
Mac
Google Chrome Google Chrome
Mozilla Firefox Mozilla Firefox

Additional Information

  • File type: Bookmarks Backup File

  • File extension: .BAK

  • Developer: Невідомо

  • Category: Backup Files

  • Format: N/A

  • Mime-type: application/octet-stream

  • HEX: 4D 53 53 51 4C 42 41 4B

  • ASCII: MSSQLBAK

  • File types that use the extension .BAK:

    • Bookmarks Backup File

    • Backup File

    • MobileTrans Backup File

    • Finale Backup File

    • ACT! Backup File

    • Terraria Backup File

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 13:42 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .BAK files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What are the common reasons for the need to repair a .BAK file?

    There are several common reasons for the need to repair a .BAK file:

    1. File Corruption: The .BAK file may become corrupt due to various reasons such as hardware failure, software issues, power outages, or improper shutdown of the system. This can result in the file becoming unreadable or inaccessible.
    2. Virus or Malware Infection: If the .BAK file gets infected by a virus or malware, it can get damaged or encrypted, making it impossible to access the data stored within it.
    3. Incorrect Backup Process: If the backup process is not performed correctly, it can lead to an incomplete or corrupted .BAK file. This can happen if the backup is interrupted, the storage medium is faulty, or if there are errors during the backup process.
    4. Software or System Errors: Sometimes, errors in the software or system can cause issues with the .BAK file. This can happen if there are compatibility issues between the software used to create the backup and the software used to restore it.
    5. Storage Medium Failure: If the storage medium where the .BAK file is stored fails, it can result in data loss or corruption. This can occur due to physical damage, bad sectors, or other issues with the storage device.
    6. Accidental Deletion or Formatting: If the .BAK file is accidentally deleted or the storage medium containing it is formatted, the file may need to be repaired or recovered to retrieve the lost data.

    In any of these cases, repairing the .BAK file may involve using specialized software or seeking professional assistance to recover the data and restore the file to a usable state.

  • What are the steps or tools required to repair a corrupted or damaged .BAK file?

    To repair a corrupted or damaged .BAK file, you can follow these steps:

    1. Check the integrity of the file: Use a text editor or a file viewer to open the .BAK file and check if it contains any readable data. If the file is completely unreadable or shows random characters, it may be severely corrupted.
    2. Restore from backup: If you have a backup of the .BAK file, try restoring it to its original location. This can be done by copying the backup file and replacing the corrupted one. Ensure that you have a valid backup before proceeding with this step.
    3. Use a file recovery tool: If you don't have a backup or the backup is also corrupted, you can try using file recovery software. These tools can scan your storage device for deleted or corrupted files and attempt to recover them. Some popular file recovery tools include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.
    4. Repair with specialized software: There are specific software tools designed to repair corrupted or damaged files. These tools can often handle various file formats, including .BAK files. Examples of such software include Advanced BKF Repair, Stellar Phoenix BKF Recovery, and Kernel BKF Repair.
    5. Seek professional help: If the above steps don't work or you are dealing with critical data, it's advisable to consult a professional data recovery service. They have specialized tools and expertise to handle complex data recovery scenarios and may have a higher chance of recovering your corrupted .BAK file.

    Remember to always create regular backups of your important files to avoid data loss due to corruption or damage.

  • Are there any specific precautions or best practices to follow while attempting to repair a .BAK file to avoid further data loss or corruption?

    Yes, there are several precautions and best practices to follow while attempting to repair a .BAK file to avoid further data loss or corruption. Here are some of them:

    1. Make a backup: Before attempting any repairs, it is crucial to create a backup of the original .BAK file. This ensures that even if something goes wrong during the repair process, you can always revert to the original file.
    2. Use reliable software: Choose a reputable and reliable software tool specifically designed for repairing .BAK files. Research and read reviews to ensure the software is trustworthy and has a good track record.
    3. Scan for viruses: Run a thorough virus scan on the .BAK file to ensure it is not infected. Viruses can cause further damage during the repair process, so it's crucial to eliminate any potential threats.
    4. Avoid manual editing: It is generally recommended to avoid manually editing the .BAK file unless you are an expert. Making changes without proper knowledge can lead to further corruption or data loss.
    5. Test repairs on a copy: Instead of directly repairing the original .BAK file, create a copy of it and perform the repair on the duplicate. This way, you can test the repair process without risking the original file.
    6. Follow software instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the software tool you are using for repairing the .BAK file. Each tool may have different steps, so it's important to understand and follow them correctly.
    7. Verify the repaired file: After the repair process is completed, verify the repaired .BAK file. Open it with the appropriate software or restore it to the original application to ensure it is functioning correctly.
    8. Keep a record of changes: Maintain a detailed record of the repair process, including the steps performed, any errors encountered, and the changes made. This information can be helpful for troubleshooting or reverting changes if needed.

    Remember, it is always recommended to consult with a professional or seek assistance from technical support if you are unsure about the repair process or if the data is critical.

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