How to Restore .SYS Files Lost After Formatting Your Device

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

How to Restore .SYS Files Lost After Formatting Your Device

What is a .SYS file?

A SYS file is a system file used by Microsoft DOS and Windows operating systems. It contains system settings and variables, as well as functions that are used to run the operating system. SYS files are commonly used to store device drivers and other core Windows functions.

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

There are several common causes of ".SYS" (system) files lost or failure:

  1. Software or hardware conflicts: Conflicts between different software programs or hardware components can lead to corruption or deletion of ".SYS" files.
  2. Virus or malware infections: Malicious software can infect and damage ".SYS" files, causing them to become lost or fail.
  3. Incorrect installation or uninstallation of software: Improper installation or removal of software can result in the deletion or corruption of ".SYS" files.
  4. Hardware failure: Issues with hardware components such as hard drives, memory modules, or motherboards can lead to the loss or failure of ".SYS" files.
  5. Power surges or electrical issues: Sudden power surges or electrical problems can cause data corruption or loss, including ".SYS" files.
  6. Disk errors: Disk errors, such as bad sectors or file system corruption, can result in the loss or failure of ".SYS" files.
  7. Human error: Accidental deletion or modification of ".SYS" files by users can also cause their loss or failure.
  8. Outdated or incompatible drivers: Using outdated or incompatible device drivers can lead to ".SYS" file errors or failures.
  9. System crashes or freezes: Unexpected system crashes or freezes can cause ".SYS" files to become lost or damaged.

It is important to regularly backup important system files, including ".SYS" files, to prevent data loss and to ensure system stability.

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

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

Looking for how to open a stereo windows System File image file file?

Programs that open ".SYS" files

Windows
Microsoft Windows Microsoft Windows
Mac
Parallels Desktop for Mac with Windows installed Parallels Desktop for Mac with Windows installed

Additional Information

  • File type: Windows System File

  • File extension: .SYS

  • Developer: Microsoft

  • Category: System Files

  • Format: Text and Binary

  • File types that use the extension .SYS:

    • Windows System File

    • Motorola Driver File

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 14:34 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .SYS 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 some common reasons for encountering problems when opening .SYS files and how can they be resolved?

    There can be several reasons for encountering problems when opening .SYS files, and they can be resolved using the following methods:

    1. Incompatible Software: If the .SYS file is associated with a specific software program, make sure that the software is installed correctly and is compatible with the operating system. Update the software to the latest version if necessary.
    2. Corrupted File: If the .SYS file is corrupted, it may cause issues while opening. Try obtaining a new copy of the file from a reliable source or restore it from a backup if available.
    3. File Association Errors: Sometimes, the file association for .SYS files may be incorrect, leading to problems. To fix this, right-click on the file, select "Open With," and choose the appropriate program to open the file. Also, check the option to "Always use this program to open .SYS files."
    4. Outdated Drivers: .SYS files are often drivers used by the operating system to communicate with hardware devices. If the drivers are outdated or incompatible, it can cause problems. Update the drivers for the associated hardware from the manufacturer's website or through the Device Manager in Windows.
    5. Malware Infection: Malware or viruses can infect .SYS files, causing them to malfunction. Run a thorough scan using reliable antivirus software to detect and remove any malware. Additionally, consider using a specialized malware removal tool.
    6. Insufficient Permissions: If the .SYS file requires administrative permissions to open, ensure that you have the necessary rights. Right-click on the file, select "Properties," go to the "Security" tab, and grant yourself appropriate permissions if needed.
    7. System File Corruption: If the operating system's system files are corrupted, it can affect the opening of .SYS files. Run the System File Checker (SFC) utility in Windows to scan and repair any corrupted system files.
    8. Hardware Issues: If the .SYS file is associated with a specific hardware device, ensure that the hardware is properly connected and functioning. Check for any hardware conflicts or errors in the Device Manager.

    If none of these methods resolve the issue, it is recommended to seek assistance from technical support or consult online forums dedicated to the specific problem or file type.

  • Are there any specific troubleshooting steps or tools that can help in fixing issues related to opening .SYS files?

    Yes, there are several troubleshooting steps and tools that can help in fixing issues related to opening .SYS files:

    1. Update Drivers: Outdated or incompatible device drivers can cause issues with .SYS files. Update your drivers to the latest version from the manufacturer's website.
    2. Scan for Malware: Run a full system scan using reliable antivirus or anti-malware software to check for any malicious files that may be causing issues with .SYS files.
    3. System File Checker (SFC): The System File Checker tool scans for and repairs corrupted system files. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command "sfc /scannow" to initiate the scan and repair process.
    4. Check for Disk Errors: Disk errors can lead to issues with .SYS files. Use the built-in Windows utility called Check Disk (chkdsk) to scan and fix file system errors. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command "chkdsk /f /r" to start the scan.
    5. Restore System: If the issue started recently, try using the System Restore feature to revert your computer to a previous working state. This can help in resolving issues caused by recent changes or installations.
    6. Third-Party File Repair Tools: There are several third-party tools available that specialize in repairing and fixing issues with system files, including .SYS files. Examples include DLL Suite, File Repair, and FileAssassin. Use these tools cautiously and ensure they come from reputable sources.

    Remember to always create a backup of important files before attempting any troubleshooting steps to avoid data loss.

  • How can one ensure that their system is properly configured to open .SYS files without any errors or compatibility issues?

    To ensure that your system is properly configured to open .SYS files without any errors or compatibility issues, you can follow these steps:

    1. Update your operating system: Make sure that your operating system is up to date with the latest updates and patches. This will ensure that any compatibility issues or bugs related to file handling are resolved.
    2. Install necessary drivers: .SYS files are system files that often contain device drivers or kernel-level software. If you are trying to open a .SYS file related to a specific device or hardware, ensure that you have the latest drivers installed for that device. Visit the manufacturer's website to download and install the appropriate driver.
    3. Use compatible software: .SYS files are not typically meant to be opened directly by users. They are usually loaded by the operating system during the boot process or used by specific system components. If you encounter a .SYS file that you need to open, make sure you have the appropriate software installed that can handle it. For example, if you have a .SYS file related to a printer driver, ensure that you have the printer software installed on your system.
    4. Scan for malware: Some malware or viruses can disguise themselves as .SYS files and cause compatibility issues or errors. Run a thorough scan of your system using a reliable antivirus or anti-malware software to ensure that your system is free from any malicious files.
    5. Check file associations: Ensure that the .SYS file extension is properly associated with the correct program or system component. To do this, right-click on the .SYS file, select "Open with," and choose the appropriate program. If the program is not listed, click on "Choose another app" and select the correct program from the list. You can also set the default program for opening .SYS files by going to the Control Panel > Default Programs > Set Associations.
    6. Verify file integrity: If you suspect that the .SYS file is corrupt or incomplete, try obtaining a fresh copy from a trusted source. If the file is critical for your system's operation, you may need to repair or reinstall the associated software or drivers.

    Note: It's essential to exercise caution when working with system files, as they can have a significant impact on your system's stability and security. Only make changes or modifications if you are confident in what you are doing or consult with a professional if necessary.

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