How to Retrieve Damaged .IFO Files from Cloud-Based Backup Solutions

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

How to Retrieve Damaged .IFO Files from Cloud-Based Backup Solutions
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What is a .IFO file?

An IFO file is a DVD-Video disc information file used by DVD players. It contains information referenced by the DVD player which allows users to navigate and play the contents of the DVD. IFO files work in conjunction with .VOB and .VRO files, which contain the actual audio and video data.

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

There are several common causes of ".IFO" (Information) files lost or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may unintentionally delete ".IFO" files while organizing or cleaning up their storage devices.
  2. Software errors: Malfunctioning or incompatible software can cause errors that lead to the loss or corruption of ".IFO" files.
  3. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and damage ".IFO" files, making them inaccessible or corrupt.
  4. Hardware issues: Problems with storage devices like hard drives or flash drives can result in the loss or corruption of ".IFO" files.
  5. Power outages: Sudden power failures or improper shutdowns can interrupt the writing or reading process of ".IFO" files, causing data loss or corruption.
  6. File system errors: Issues with the file system, such as file system corruption or formatting errors, can lead to the loss or failure of ".IFO" files.
  7. Human errors: Mistakes made by users, such as improper handling of storage devices, accidental formatting, or overwriting ".IFO" files, can cause their loss.
  8. Physical damage: Physical damage to storage devices, like dropping a hard drive or exposing it to extreme conditions, can result in the loss or failure of ".IFO" files.
  9. Software updates or upgrades: Sometimes, software updates or upgrades can cause compatibility issues, leading to the loss or corruption of ".IFO" files.
  10. Data transfer errors: Errors during data transfer, such as interruptions or incomplete transfers, can cause ".IFO" files to be lost or become inaccessible.

How to recover lost ".IFO" 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 ".IFO" 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 ".IFO" file is always to create it once more.

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

Looking for how to open a stereo dVD-Video Disc Information File image file file?

Programs that open ".IFO" files

Windows
Microsoft Windows Media Player Microsoft Windows Media Player
CyberLink PowerDVD 17 CyberLink PowerDVD 17
Roxio Creator NXT Pro 7 Roxio Creator NXT Pro 7
Corel WinDVD Pro 12 Corel WinDVD Pro 12
Nero 2019 Nero 2019
GRETECH GOM Player GRETECH GOM Player
IfoEdit IfoEdit
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Kodi Kodi
Mac
Apple DVD Player Apple DVD Player
Roxio Toast 18 Roxio Toast 18
Roxio Popcorn Roxio Popcorn
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Kodi Kodi
Linux
VideoLAN VLC media player VideoLAN VLC media player
Kodi Kodi

Additional Information

  • File type: DVD-Video Disc Information File

  • File extension: .IFO

  • Developer: N/A

  • Category: Video Files

  • Format: Text

  • HEX: 44 56 44

  • ASCII: DVD

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 15:23 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .IFO 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 .IFO repair and why is it necessary in the context of DVD or Blu-ray discs?

    The purpose of .IFO (Information File) repair is to fix damaged or corrupted .IFO files on DVD or Blu-ray discs. .IFO files contain essential information about the disc, such as navigation, menus, chapters, and other playback settings.

    It is necessary to repair .IFO files because they play a crucial role in the proper functioning of DVD or Blu-ray discs. When a disc is inserted into a player, the player relies on the information stored in the .IFO files to navigate and play the content seamlessly. If the .IFO files are damaged or corrupted, it can lead to various issues, such as:

    1. Inability to access or play the disc: Damaged .IFO files may prevent the player from recognizing or reading the disc properly, resulting in an error or inability to access the content.
    2. Navigation and menu problems: .IFO files provide instructions for navigating through the disc's menus, chapters, and other interactive features. If these files are corrupted, it can cause navigation issues, making it difficult to access specific sections or features.
    3. Playback errors and glitches: Corrupted .IFO files can lead to playback errors, such as freezing, skipping, or stuttering during playback. This can disrupt the viewing experience and render the disc unwatchable.

    By repairing the damaged or corrupted .IFO files, the functionality and playability of the DVD or Blu-ray disc can be restored. It ensures that the player can interpret the disc's content correctly, allowing for smooth navigation, menu access, and uninterrupted playback.

  • What are some common issues that can occur with .IFO files, and how does the repair process help in resolving them?

    Some common issues that can occur with .IFO files include:

    1. Corrupted or damaged file: If the .IFO file is corrupted or damaged, it may not be readable by the associated program or device. This can lead to errors or the inability to access the file's content.
    2. Incorrect file associations: Sometimes, the .IFO file may not be associated with the correct program or software. As a result, attempting to open the file may result in an error or the file may not open at all.
    3. File format compatibility issues: In some cases, the .IFO file may not be compatible with the program or device you are trying to open it with. This can occur if the file was created with a different version of the software or if the file format is outdated.

    The repair process can help in resolving these issues by:

    1. Repairing the file structure: If the .IFO file is corrupted or damaged, the repair process can attempt to fix the file structure and make it readable again. This can involve repairing missing or incorrect data within the file.
    2. Restoring file associations: If the .IFO file is not associated with the correct program, the repair process can help in restoring the correct file associations. This ensures that the file opens with the appropriate software when accessed.
    3. Converting file formats: If the .IFO file is not compatible with the program or device, the repair process can convert the file to a more compatible format. This allows the file to be opened and accessed without any compatibility issues.

    Overall, the repair process aims to restore the .IFO file to its original state, making it accessible and usable again.

  • Could you explain the steps involved in .IFO repair and any recommended software or tools that can be used for this task?

    .IFO files are DVD-Video information files that contain important data about the structure and content of a DVD. If an .IFO file gets corrupted or damaged, it can prevent the DVD from playing properly. Here are the steps involved in repairing .IFO files:

    1. Identify the corrupted .IFO file: Determine which .IFO file is causing the issue. It is usually named VIDEO_TS.IFO and is located in the VIDEO_TS folder of the DVD.
    2. Copy the .IFO file: Make a backup copy of the corrupted .IFO file before attempting any repairs. This ensures that you can revert to the original file if needed.
    3. Use a .IFO repair software: There are several software options available that can repair corrupted .IFO files. Some popular tools include:

    a. DVD Shrink: This software can not only backup DVDs but also repair .IFO files. It has a built-in "Open Files" feature that allows you to select the corrupted .IFO file and repair it.

    b. FixVTS: It is a free tool specifically designed to repair DVD .IFO files. It can fix various issues, including invalid DVD navigation and incorrect DVD structure.

    c. VOBBlanker: Although primarily used for removing unwanted content from DVDs, VOBBlanker can also repair damaged .IFO files. It has a "Repair" function that can fix issues with .IFO files.

    1. Repair the .IFO file: Launch the chosen software and select the corrupted .IFO file for repair. The software will attempt to fix any issues within the file.
    2. Test the repaired .IFO file: After the repair process is complete, test the repaired .IFO file by attempting to play the DVD. If the DVD plays without any issues, then the repair was successful.

    Note: It is important to exercise caution when using third-party software and ensure that you download them from reputable sources to avoid any potential malware or security risks.

    Remember to always create a backup of the original .IFO file before attempting any repairs, as some repair processes may not be reversible.
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