Recovery ยท 5 min read
How to recover deleted files
Deleted an important file? Acting fast matters. The less you use the drive after deletion, the better your chances.
Recover deleted files on Windows safely: stop using the drive, check the Recycle Bin and backups, then try recovery software.
Before you start
- Stop writing data: Do not save or install anything on the affected drive.
- Backup check: Look for cloud, File History, or external-drive copies.
- Second drive: Install recovery tools somewhere else.
- Critical files: Stop and get help if the data is valuable.
Follow this order
Stop using the drive
New data can overwrite the deleted file. Avoid saving or installing anything on that drive until you recover it.
Check the Recycle Bin
Open it first. Recently deleted files often sit here and restore with one right-click.
Restore a previous version
Right-click the folder, choose "Restore previous versions", and pick a version from before the deletion.
Try File History or a backup
If you had File History or a backup set up, restore the file from there.
Use recovery software
For files gone from the Recycle Bin, a reputable recovery tool can scan the drive. Install it on a different drive.
Get help for critical data
For important files or a failing drive, stop and bring it to us before further attempts risk the data.
Good to know
- The most important rule: stop writing to the drive the moment you notice the file is gone.
- If the drive is making clicking noises, power it off and seek help. It may be failing physically.
Common questions
Can I always recover a deleted file?
Often, if you act quickly and the space was not overwritten. There is no guarantee once new data is written.
Files are gone from the Recycle Bin too. Any hope?
Yes, recovery tools can still find many of them if the drive has not been heavily used since.