How to Recover Deleted Files in Windows

Introduction

Accidentally deleting important files can be frustrating, but Windows offers several methods for recovering deleted files. This guide outlines the most effective ways to retrieve lost data on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Methods for Recovering Deleted Files

Method 1: Check the Recycle Bin

  1. Open the Recycle Bin:
    • Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
  2. Locate the Deleted File:
    • Browse through the list of deleted files or use the search bar to find the specific file.
  3. Restore the File:
    • Right-click the file and select Restore. This will return the file to its original location.

Method 2: Use File History (if enabled)

  1. Access Settings:
    • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  2. Navigate to Update & Security:
    • Click on Update & Security, then select Backup.
  3. Open File History:
    • Click on More options under Back up using File History.
  4. Restore Files:
    • Select Restore files from a current backup. Navigate through the backups to find the deleted file and click the Restore button.

Method 3: Restore Previous Versions

  1. Open File Explorer:
    • Navigate to the folder where the deleted file was originally located.
  2. Right-Click the Folder:
    • Right-click the folder and select Restore previous versions.
  3. Select a Version:
    • Choose a version from the list that predates the deletion of the file and click Restore.

Method 4: Use Windows Backup (if configured)

  1. Access Control Panel:
    • Type Control Panel in the Windows search bar and press Enter.
  2. Select Backup and Restore (Windows 7):
    • Click on Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
  3. Restore My Files:
    • Click on Restore my files and follow the prompts to recover your deleted files.

Method 5: Use Data Recovery Software

If the above methods do not work, you may need to use third-party data recovery software. Popular options include:

  • Recuva
  • EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
  • Disk Drill
  1. Download and Install the Software: Follow the installation instructions from the chosen software’s website.
  2. Run the Software: Launch the recovery tool and follow its instructions to scan for deleted files.
  3. Select and Recover: Once the scan is complete, select the files you wish to recover and follow the prompts.

Conclusion

Recovering deleted files in Windows is often straightforward, especially if you act quickly. By using the Recycle Bin, File History, or previous versions, you can often retrieve lost data without the need for specialized software. If all else fails, third-party recovery tools can help recover files that have been permanently deleted.

Bison Infosolutions Support

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