At Secure Data Recovery, we frequently help videographers with severe file corruption. One of the most common cases involves a zero-byte error on drives formatted for exFAT. Cross-platform users often choose exFAT as their file system to access the same data on Windows and macOS. However, exFAT has flaws in both operating systems and presents unique challenges when restoring lost data.
Our experts explain what causes the zero-byte error and offer a solution to reverse data loss if it happens to you.
Key Takeaways:
- Using exFAT on modern devices could lead to large files shrinking to 0 bytes and result in sudden data loss.
- Our data recovery services can often repair corrupted videos and restore files to their original state.
Explaining exFAT’s Zero-Byte Error on Hard Drives and SSDs
exFAT is popular among people who regularly use Windows PCs and Macs. It is a convenient option, given limited support for default file systems (NTFS and APFS) on rival platforms. Windows cannot read or write APFS without third-party software. macOS can read data from an NTFS drive but cannot write to them natively. Using exFAT does not come without risks, though.
Microsoft introduced the file system in 2006 as an upgrade to FAT. It removed many restrictions like storage space and file size at the time. However, exFAT does lack the features and tooling of newer file systems.
Outdated elements of exFAT’s design can lead to file corruption on system drives and external devices. For example, Macs with an M-series chip and exFAT volume are more likely to scramble large files when handling metadata. As a result, the file size of videos (often MXF, MOV, and MP4 formats) could show as 0 bytes. Yet, despite showing 0 bytes, the binary data still resides on the storage medium. The file system just has no way to locate it.
In addition, exFAT is optimized for flash storage, such as solid-state drives (SSDs) and USB flash drives. Therefore, desktop disks and external hard drives formatted for exFAT are also susceptible to file corruption.
Can You Recover Data From exFAT Drive With Zero-Byte Error?
Yes. We can often recover raw data from an exFAT drive and repair corrupt video files.
Our skilled engineers have decades of experience and expertise across numerous storage devices and file systems. That knowledge extends to different models of hard drives and SSDs and the exFAT file system.
The complex process starts by extracting data from NAND memory cells or magnetic platters. As mentioned, the raw data stored on the device still contains all the info needed to restore a working video. After locating data in the drive’s free space, we create an image of the device to preserve files. This approach allows us to make multiple attempts without damaging data further.
We use advanced tools and techniques to extract and analyze the raw data. In most cases, our team can determine the proper position of file fragments and reassemble data into a usable format. Lastly, we use video file repair tools to complete the process. Timelines vary based on the extent of the corruption, the amount of stored data, and file sizes.
As flash drive, SSD, and hard drive recovery experts, we specialize in retrieving data in the most difficult cases.
Call the Experts To Reverse Data Loss From File Corruption
Since 2007, we have recovered billions of files across over 100,000 cases. Our professionals have maintained a 96% success rate in that time. That success includes cases like fixing zero-byte errors on an exFAT device when other companies deemed the data lost forever. Whether you need to recover critical project files or priceless video memories, we can help.
As an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) with Apple Certified Mac Technicians (ACMT), we deliver the most reliable results for Mac data recovery. We back those results with free quotes as part of our standard service and a No Data, No Recovery Fee guarantee. You get your important data back, or pay nothing. It is that simple.
Call 800-388-1266 or request help to start a case and reclaim corrupted files from an exFAT drive showing 0 bytes.
Note: Secure Data Recovery is proud to partner with the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and American Photographic Artists (APA). This partnership provides a 15% discount to members.
