.ghs

Extension: Norton Ghost Image Segment

Developer: Symantec

The .ghs file extension signifies a Norton Ghost Image Segment, a part of a larger disk image created by Symantec’s now-legacy backup software, Norton Ghost. These files aren’t standalone images you can directly use; instead, they’re fragmented pieces of a complete backup. Think of them as puzzle pieces – you need all the pieces (multiple .ghs files, often accompanied by a .gho file) to reconstruct the original image. The size of individual .ghs files can vary greatly depending on the size and partitioning of the hard drive that was backed up, and the method of segmentation employed by Norton Ghost. Attempting to open a single .ghs file directly will likely result in an error, as the file itself lacks the necessary metadata and structure to be interpreted without its counterparts.

To access the data within the .ghs files, you need to use compatible software, ideally the Norton Ghost software version that created the backup. However, since Norton Ghost is no longer actively developed, alternative solutions may be necessary. Some third-party recovery tools might support the .gho format (the main image file), which can then reconstruct the data from the associated .ghs segments. If you have the corresponding .gho file, you might try using a modern imaging tool that supports Ghost image formats. Remember that directly manipulating .ghs files without proper software can lead to data corruption or loss. Always prioritize using a reliable recovery solution and back up your data regularly to avoid future restoration challenges.