How to Retrieve .GDB Files Deleted by Human or System Errors

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 .GDB file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Retrieve .GDB Files Deleted by Human or System Errors

What is a .GDB file?

Database file created with Borland InterBase; default extension used by versions of InterBase prior to InterBase 7.0; databases created with InterBase 6.5 and earlier have a 2GB file size limit.

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

There are several common causes of ".GDB" (Geodatabase) files lost or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete the ".GDB" file while cleaning up their computer or storage device.
  2. Software or hardware issues: Issues with the software or hardware used to manage the ".GDB" file can lead to its failure or loss. This can include software crashes, power outages, or hardware failures.
  3. File system corruption: Corruption in the file system where the ".GDB" file is stored can cause it to become inaccessible or lost.
  4. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and corrupt the ".GDB" file, making it unusable or leading to its loss.
  5. Improper shutdown: If the computer or software is not properly shut down while the ".GDB" file is in use, it can result in file corruption or loss.
  6. Synchronization issues: If the ".GDB" file is being synchronized across multiple devices or networks, issues during the synchronization process can lead to file loss or failure.
  7. Human errors: Human errors such as accidental overwriting, improper file handling, or incorrect file manipulation can result in the loss or failure of ".GDB" files.
  8. Physical damage: Physical damage to the storage device where the ".GDB" file is stored, such as a hard drive failure or damage to the external storage device, can lead to file loss or failure.

It is important to regularly backup ".GDB" files and take preventive measures, such as using reliable antivirus software and practicing safe file handling, to minimize the risk of file loss or failure.

How to recover lost ".GDB" 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 ".GDB" file may be deleted.

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🧺 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 ".GDB" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".GDB" 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 ".GDB" 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 ".GDB" 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 ".GDB" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo interBase Database File image file file?

Programs that open ".GDB" files

Windows
Embarcadero InterBase Embarcadero InterBase

Additional Information

  • File type: InterBase Database File

  • File extension: .GDB

  • Developer: Borland

  • Category: Database Files

  • Format: N/A

  • HEX: 4D 73 52 63 66

  • ASCII: MsRcf

  • File types that use the extension .GDB:

    • InterBase Database File

    • GPS Database File

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 14:21 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .GDB 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 is the purpose of a .GDB file and what does it contain?

    A .GDB file, also known as a Geodatabase file, is a file format used by Esri's ArcGIS software for storing and managing geographic data. The purpose of a .GDB file is to provide a structured and efficient way to organize and store various types of spatial data, such as maps, layers, features, attributes, and relationships.

    A .GDB file contains multiple datasets, which can include feature classes (vector data), raster datasets (grid-based data), relationship classes (describing the relationships between datasets), attribute tables (storing non-spatial data), and other geodatabase components. These components are organized within a hierarchical structure, allowing for easy management and analysis of spatial data.

    The .GDB file format supports advanced geospatial capabilities, such as spatial indexing, topology rules, versioning, and multi-user editing, making it suitable for handling complex and large-scale geospatial projects. It provides a comprehensive and integrated environment for working with geographic data, enabling users to perform various tasks like querying, editing, analyzing, and visualizing spatial information efficiently.

  • Which software applications or programs can be used to open and access a .GDB file?

    A .GDB file is a database file created by the Geographic Data Base (GDB) format used by ESRI ArcGIS software. To open and access a .GDB file, you can use the following software applications or programs:

    1. ESRI ArcGIS: The primary software used to create and work with .GDB files is ESRI ArcGIS. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools and features to manage, analyze, and visualize geographic data.
    2. QGIS: QGIS is a free and open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) software that supports various data formats, including .GDB files. It provides similar functionalities to ArcGIS and is a popular alternative for working with geographic data.
    3. FME Desktop: FME Desktop is a data integration and transformation software that supports numerous data formats, including .GDB files. It allows you to read, write, and convert data between different formats and systems.
    4. GDAL/OGR: The Geospatial Data Abstraction Library (GDAL) and the OGR Simple Features Library (OGR) are open-source libraries that provide tools and utilities to read, write, and manipulate various geospatial data formats, including .GDB files. They can be used through command-line tools or integrated into other software applications.
    5. Global Mapper: Global Mapper is a comprehensive GIS software that supports various data formats, including .GDB files. It offers advanced data analysis, visualization, and editing capabilities.
    6. FDO Toolbox: FDO Toolbox is an open-source GIS application that allows you to view, edit, and analyze geographic data. It supports multiple data formats, including .GDB files, through the Feature Data Objects (FDO) API.

    These are some of the software applications and programs that can open and access .GDB files. Depending on your specific requirements and preferences, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

  • Are there any specific steps or procedures to follow in order to successfully open and view the contents of a .GDB file?

    Yes, there are specific steps and procedures to follow in order to successfully open and view the contents of a .GDB file. Here is a general outline of the steps:

    1. Determine the software or application that created the .GDB file: .GDB files are commonly associated with Geodatabase files used in Geographic Information System (GIS) applications. The specific software used to create the .GDB file will determine the steps to open and view it.
    2. Install the appropriate software: If you don't have the required software installed, you need to download and install it. For example, if the .GDB file is associated with Esri ArcGIS software, you would need to install ArcGIS Desktop or ArcGIS Pro.
    3. Open the software: Launch the software that is associated with the .GDB file.
    4. Import or open the .GDB file: Depending on the software, you may need to import the .GDB file or directly open it. Look for options like "Open File," "Import Data," or "Add Data" within the software.
    5. Navigate to the .GDB file: Browse your computer's file system to locate the .GDB file you want to open. Select the file and click "Open" or "Import."
    6. Explore the contents: Once the .GDB file is opened, you can explore its contents. This may include viewing maps, layers, tables, or other data elements within the software.

    It's important to note that the steps may vary slightly depending on the software used and the specific version. Therefore, referring to the software's documentation or user guide can provide more detailed instructions.

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