VSS / Previous versions - Can they be restored from a failed server HDD?

TimFarren
TimFarren used Ask the Experts™
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Hello everyone.

I am in dire need of recovering some SQL database files from a damaged server 2008 installation that will no longer boot due to a damaged registry (SYSTEM) hive.  The issue was caused by a bad hard disk, but I've since imaged the drive onto a good hard disk (it still won't boot - damage has been done).  

My question - is there ANY way to attach this drive externally to a working machine and "see" the previous versions that were being stored?  Some of the current versions of the files located on the drive are munged up - some really important ones.

Help is greatly appreciated.

 - Tim
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IT System Administrator
Commented:
There is a small software called Shadow Explorer,but i think it works using system restore on vista / 7.  but this link says it works http://www.shadowexplorer.com/documentation/faq.html
. you have no windows server backup ran & without third party backup software it does not create registry snap shots i think.

not sure you can try

http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/recover-files-with-shadow-copies-on-any-version-of-windows-vista/
http://www.shadowexplorer.com/
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/132087-shadowexplorer-recover-lost-files-folders.html

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