How to Retrieve .MCA Files Lost After a System Crash on Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS

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

How to Retrieve .MCA Files Lost After a System Crash on Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .MCA file?

World format used by Minecraft, a game that allows open-ended construction of worlds; replaces the older .MCR (Minecraft Region) format and includes enhancements such as an increased build height (256 up from 128), support for more block types, and more efficient file compression; also enables greater modding capabilities for the game community.

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

There can be various causes for ".MCA" file loss or failure. Some common causes include:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".MCA" files while organizing or cleaning up their computer systems.
  2. System crashes: Sudden system crashes or power failures can lead to the loss or corruption of ".MCA" files.
  3. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and corrupt ".MCA" files, making them inaccessible or unusable.
  4. Software conflicts: Incompatibility or conflicts between different software applications can result in the loss or corruption of ".MCA" files.
  5. File system errors: Issues with the file system, such as disk errors or bad sectors, can cause ".MCA" files to become lost or corrupted.
  6. Hardware failures: Problems with hard drives, memory cards, or other storage devices can lead to the loss or failure of ".MCA" files.
  7. Human errors: Mistakes made by users, such as improper file handling or accidental formatting of storage devices, can result in ".MCA" file loss.
  8. Software bugs or glitches: Errors or bugs within software applications that handle ".MCA" files can cause data loss or file corruption.
  9. File system formatting: Formatting a storage device without proper backup can permanently erase ".MCA" files.
  10. File transfer errors: Errors occurring during file transfers, such as interrupted downloads or incomplete file copies, can cause ".MCA" file loss or corruption.

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

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

Looking for how to open a stereo minecraft "Anvil" Map File image file file?

Programs that open ".MCA" files

Windows
Mojang Minecraft Mojang Minecraft
NBTExplorer NBTExplorer
Mac
Mojang Minecraft Mojang Minecraft
NBTExplorer NBTExplorer
Linux
Mojang Minecraft Mojang Minecraft
NBTExplorer NBTExplorer

Additional Information

  • File type: Minecraft "Anvil" Map File

  • File extension: .MCA

  • Developer: Mojang

  • Category: Game Files

  • Format: Binary

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 11:41 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .MCA 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 a .MCA backup file and how is it different from other types of backups?

    A .MCA backup file is a specific type of backup file format used by Minecraft Java Edition. MCA stands for Minecraft Anvil, which is the name of the file format used to store Minecraft worlds.

    In Minecraft, the game world is divided into chunks, and each chunk is stored in a separate .MCA file. These files contain information about the terrain, structures, entities, and other elements of the game world.

    The .MCA backup file is different from other types of backups in the sense that it specifically focuses on preserving the Minecraft world data. It is not a comprehensive backup solution for the entire system or other files on the computer. Instead, it is designed to specifically backup and restore Minecraft game worlds.

    Other types of backups, such as system backups or file backups, aim to create a copy of the entire system or specific files and folders. They are more comprehensive and can encompass multiple applications, settings, and data beyond just the Minecraft world.

    Therefore, a .MCA backup file is specific to Minecraft and is primarily used to safeguard and restore Minecraft game worlds, while other backups are broader in scope and cover a wider range of system or file-level data.

  • How can I create a .MCA backup of my data and what are the recommended tools or software for this purpose?

    To create a .MCA backup of your data, you can follow these steps:

    1. Determine the type of data you want to backup: Identify the specific files, folders, or databases you wish to include in the backup.
    2. Select a backup tool or software: There are several options available for creating .MCA backups. Here are a few recommended tools:
    • AOMEI Backupper: A reliable and user-friendly backup software that supports creating .MCA backups.
    • EaseUS Todo Backup: Another popular backup software with support for .MCA backups.
    • Acronis True Image: A comprehensive backup solution that also supports .MCA backups.
    1. Download and install the selected backup software: Visit the official website of the chosen tool, download the software, and follow the installation instructions.
    2. Launch the backup software: Open the backup software on your computer.
    3. Configure the backup settings: Set up the backup parameters, such as the source files/folders, destination location, backup type (full, incremental, or differential), compression settings, encryption (if required), and any other preferences as per your needs.
    4. Start the backup process: Once you have configured the settings, initiate the backup process by clicking on the "Start" or "Backup" button.
    5. Wait for the backup to complete: The backup software will now create a .MCA backup file containing your selected data. The time taken will depend on the size of the data and the speed of your computer.
    6. Verify the backup: After the backup process finishes, it is recommended to verify the integrity of the backup file to ensure it was created successfully. Most backup software includes a verification option.
    7. Store the backup securely: Transfer the .MCA backup file to a secure location, such as an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another physical storage device.

    Remember to periodically update your backups to ensure you have the latest version of your data stored securely.

    Note: The availability of .MCA backup support may vary depending on the software version and the specific backup tool you choose. It is advisable to check the documentation or features list of the software to confirm support for .MCA backups before proceeding.

  • Are there any limitations or compatibility issues when restoring data from a .MCA backup file?

    Yes, there can be limitations and compatibility issues when restoring data from a .MCA backup file. Some potential limitations and compatibility issues to consider include:

    1. Software compatibility: The .MCA backup file format may be specific to certain software applications or backup tools. Therefore, you need to ensure that you have the appropriate software or tool capable of restoring data from the .MCA backup file.
    2. Version compatibility: The .MCA backup file format may have different versions, and it is essential to ensure that the software or tool you are using supports the specific version of the .MCA file you are trying to restore.
    3. Operating system compatibility: The software or tool used to restore data from the .MCA backup file may have specific operating system requirements. Make sure that your operating system is compatible with the software or tool.
    4. Data integrity: Depending on the backup process and the software used, there is a possibility that some data may be lost or corrupted during the backup process. It is crucial to verify the integrity of the backup file before restoring to ensure that the data is complete and accurate.
    5. Storage limitations: If the backup file is large in size, you may encounter storage limitations while restoring the data. Ensure that you have enough storage space available to accommodate the restored data.
    6. Encryption and security: If the .MCA backup file is encrypted or secured, you need to have the necessary encryption keys or passwords to restore the data successfully. Failure to provide the correct encryption credentials may prevent you from restoring the data.

    It is recommended to consult the documentation of the specific software or tool you are using for restoring the .MCA backup file to understand any potential limitations or compatibility issues.
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