Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\GetDataBack\GetDataBack.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\GetDataBack\GetDataBack.exe
Warning
Background activity common during recovery
GetDataBack runs multiple threads for scanning; expect IO-intensive behavior during recoveries
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close GetDataBack when not actively recovering; disable startup if needed via Windows startup settings to prevent automatic launches
What is getdataback.exe?
getdataback.exe is the main executable for the GetDataBack data recovery software. It launches the recovery engine, scans physical drives or partitions, and lists recoverable files. It supports NTFS, FAT32, and exFAT, offering guided or selective recovery options.
GetDataBack.exe reads raw disk data with a guided recovery engine, reconstructs files from filesystem metadata, and presents recoverable items without writing to the source drive. It supports multiple file systems and exports results safely.
Quick Fact: GetDataBack uses signature-based recovery alongside directory reconstruction to maximize file salvage across FAT and NTFS partitions.
Types of GetDataBack Processes
- Launcher Process: Starts the GUI and coordinates the recovery task (1 instance per session)
- Scanner/Indexer Process: Reads disk sectors to identify recoverable files (per drive)
- Recovery Engine Process: Reconstructs files and metadata for export
- Export/Write Process: Writes recovered data to a user-selected destination
Is getdataback.exe Safe?
Yes, getdataback.exe is safe when obtained from official sources (GetDataBack distribution channels or the publisher's website) and not tampered with.
Is getdataback.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real getdataback.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names. Always verify file location and signature.
How to Tell if getdataback.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\GetDataBack\ or C:\Program Files (x86)\GetDataBack\GetDataBack.exe. Any other location is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the exe -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should show signer as "Runtime Software, LLC" or the official GetDataBack publisher.
- Resource Usage: During a recovery, CPU usage and IO may spike. Idle spikes or post-scan idle activity outside expected windows is suspicious.
- Behavior: The program should run only when you initiate a recovery task. Background activity outside user actions can indicate malware.
Red Flags: If getdataback.exe appears in unusual folders (like Temp or AppData), runs at startup without user action, lacks a valid signature, or uses resources constantly, run a full antivirus scan and verify with the official publisher.
Why Is getdataback.exe Running on My PC?
GetDataBack launches when you start a recovery task or when configured to monitor drives for data salvage. It may run multiple components during a scan to reconstruct and export files.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Recovery Session: You started a recovery task; the software scans the selected drive and enumerates recoverable files.
- Background Scanning: While scanning, the tool may run in the background to index file signatures and fragments.
- Scheduled or Automatic Checks: If configured, the program may perform periodic checks or integrity verifications on scanned data.
- Startup Launch: If installed with a startup option, it may launch automatically when Windows starts.
- Volume Mounting for Recovery: The tool may mount drives or virtual disks to access sectors during recovery operations.
Can I Disable or Remove getdataback.exe?
Yes, you can disable getdataback.exe. It's safe to close the program when not recovering, and you can uninstall it if you no longer need data recovery functionality.
How to Stop getdataback.exe
- End Active Recovery Task: In GetDataBack, cancel the current recovery job and stop any active scan.
- Close the Application: Click the X button or use Exit to close the program.
- Disable Startup: Windows Task Manager -> Startup tab -> Disable GetDataBack startup entry.
- Disable Background Scanning: In GetDataBack Settings, turn off background scanning or auto-scan features.
- Uninstall: Windows Settings -> Apps -> GetDataBack -> Uninstall
How to Uninstall GetDataBack
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → GetDataBack → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → GetDataBack → Uninstall
- ✔ Restart your PC if prompted
Common Problems: High CPU or Disk IO During Recovery
If getdataback.exe is consuming excessive resources during a recovery task:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Large drive with extensive data: Limit the scope to a single partition or pause the scan when not actively salvaging data.
- Resource-Heavy Recovery Job: Disable unnecessary features; run in standard mode and avoid simultaneous multi-drive scans.
- Corrupted catalog or signatures: Run a smaller, targeted recover with the signature database updated or use a fresh project.
- Background Extensions or Plugins: Disable non-essential applications or plugins integrated with GetDataBack.
- Outdated GetDataBack version: Update to the latest version from the official site and apply any patches.
- Antivirus interference: Add GetDataBack to the antivirus exclusions list during recovery, or temporarily disable protection during a scan.
Quick Fixes:
1. Pause or cancel the current recovery task in GetDataBack Task Manager UI
2. Close GetDataBack and restart the program
3. Update GetDataBack to the latest version
4. Run a targeted scan on a smaller partition
5. Add GetDataBack to antivirus exceptions and re-run recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is getdataback.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate getdataback.exe from GetDataBack is not a virus. Verify file location: C:\Program Files\GetDataBack\GetDataBack.exe and ensure a valid digital signature from Runtime Software, LLC.
Why is getdataback.exe using so much CPU?
Recovery scans read disk sectors and signatures across large volumes. CPU spikes are common during active recovery; if it remains high when idle, verify file integrity and the source drive.
Can I delete getdataback.exe?
Yes, you can uninstall GetDataBack if you no longer need its functionality. Uninstall via Windows Settings → Apps or Control Panel; your recovered data remains on the destination you selected.
Can I disable getdataback.exe from starting automatically?
Yes. Disable the startup entry in Task Manager → Startup to prevent automatic launches on boot. This does not uninstall the software.
Where should GetDataBack be installed?
Install location should be in C:\Program Files\GetDataBack or C:\Program Files (x86)\GetDataBack. Other locations are not recommended and may affect operation.
Will GetDataBack recover deleted files safely?
GetDataBack can recover many deleted files from supported file systems, but success depends on drive health and prior overwrites. Always save recovered data to a different drive.