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UNFORMAT command in Windows

The Windows unformat command is a powerful tool that allows users to recover data from a formatted disk. This command can help you restore accidentally deleted files and folders, giving you a second chance to retrieve important data. By utilizing the unformat command, you can quickly and effectively recover lost information without the need for expensive third-party software. This feature is particularly useful in situations where data loss occurs due to human error or system malfunctions.

UNFORMAT Syntax:

Terminal window
unformat [drive:][/test] [/P] [/Q] [/RESET][/PROGRESS]

Windows UNFORMAT Options:

OptionDescription
/testChecks the disk for disk errors.
/PEnables PowerShell compatibility.
/QFast/Super-quick format.
/RESETResets the formatting process.
/PROGRESSDisplays the progress of the formatting process.

UNFORMAT Parameters:

ParameterDescription
drive:Specifies the drive letter.
testInitiates a test for disk errors.

How to use UNFORMAT command:

Unformat a drive

Terminal window
unformat F:

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive F:).

Unformat a drive without confirmation

Terminal window
unformat C: /P

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive C:) without asking for confirmation.

Unformat a drive and display detailed information

Terminal window
unformat E: /V

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive E:) and displays detailed information during the process.

Unformat a drive and specify the cluster size

Terminal window
unformat D: /A:4096

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive D:) and sets the cluster size to 4096 bytes.

Unformat a drive and specify the file system type

Terminal window
unformat G: /FS:FAT32

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive G:) and formats it with the FAT32 file system.

Unformat a drive with a label

Terminal window
unformat H: /L:DATA

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive H:) and assigns the label “DATA”.

Unformat a drive and perform a quick format

Terminal window
unformat I: /Q

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive I:) and performs a quick format.

Unformat a drive and specify the volume serial number

Terminal window
unformat J: /V:12345678

Unformats the specified drive (in this case, drive J:) and sets the volume serial number to 12345678.

How do I use unformat in Windows?

To use the unformat command in Windows, execute the following command:

Terminal window
unformat --option <value>

How can I recover formatted data using unformat in CMD?

To recover formatted data using unformat in CMD, you can use the following command:

Terminal window
unformat --recover <drive_letter>

What is the purpose of the unformat command?

The unformat command in Windows CMD is used to restore a formatted disk back to its previous state, recovering lost data in the process.

Can unformat undo accidental formatting on a drive?

Yes, the unformat command can help undo accidental formatting on a drive by recovering lost data.

How do I specify the file system type when using unformat in Windows?

When using the unformat command in Windows, you can specify the file system type with the following command:

Terminal window
unformat --fs-type <file_system_type> <drive_letter>

Is it possible to unformat a specific partition using CMD in Windows?

Yes, you can unformat a specific partition using CMD in Windows by running the following command:

Terminal window
unformat --partition <partition_number>

Can unformat be used to recover data on external storage devices?

Yes, unformat can be used to recover data on external storage devices such as USB drives or external hard drives.

How can I check the status of the unformat process in Windows CMD?

To check the status of the unformat process in Windows CMD, you can use the following command:

Terminal window
unformat --status

Applications of the UNFORMAT Command

  • Recovering data from accidentally formatted drives.
  • Restoring data from a formatted partition.
  • Fixing formatting issues on storage devices.