If the drive is recognized by your computer but files are missing, these third-party tools offer free versions for data rescue:
Before trying advanced recovery, use WD's own utilities to see if the drive is physically healthy or just needs a software unlock. Mybook Rescue Tool Free
: If Windows asks to format the drive to use it, click Cancel . Formatting can make deep recovery much harder. WD My Book Data Recovery(2026) - MyRecover If the drive is recognized by your computer
: This utility specifically supports WD My Book series (including Essential and 3.0 USB models) for recovering photos, videos, and documents. WD My Book Data Recovery(2026) - MyRecover :
: If your drive is password-protected and not mounting, download the standalone Western Digital Security software instead of running the version on the drive itself, which may be corrupted. 2. Recommended Free Recovery Software
: As soon as you realize data is lost, stop using the drive. Writing new files can overwrite the ones you are trying to rescue.
: Using a "Live CD" or USB with tools like DDRescue can help you create a bit-for-bit image of a failing drive before it dies completely.