Losing important files can be a nightmare, but fortunately, there are several ways to recover deleted files from your computer, whether you’re using Windows or Mac. This guide will walk you through the steps to recover your lost data effectively.
Why File Recovery is Important
Accidentally deleting files can happen to anyone. Whether it’s due to human error, software issues, or even malicious attacks, having the knowledge to recover deleted files can save you from significant data loss and frustration.
How to Recover Deleted Files on Windows
Windows provides multiple built-in features and third-party tools to help you recover deleted files. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Check the Recycle Bin
The Recycle Bin is the first place to check for deleted files.
- Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking the icon on your desktop.
- Locate the files you want to recover.
- Right-click the files and select “Restore.” This will return the files to their original location.
2. Use File History
File History is a built-in backup feature in Windows that allows you to recover deleted files by restoring previous versions.
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Backup.
- Click “More options” under “Back up using File History.”
- Select “Restore files from a current backup.”
- Browse the available backups and recover the files you need.
3. Restore Previous Versions
Windows keeps a record of previous versions of files through restore points, which can be used to recover deleted files.
- Navigate to the folder that contained the deleted file.
- Right-click the folder and select “Restore previous versions.”
- Choose the version of the folder that contains the deleted file and click “Restore.”
4. Use Windows Backup and Restore
If you use Windows Backup, you can recover deleted files from a backup.
- Open the Control Panel and go to System and Security > Backup and Restore.
- Click “Restore my files” and follow the wizard to recover your files from the backup.
5. Third-Party Data Recovery Software
If the above methods fail, you can use third-party software like Recuva, MiniTool Partition Wizard, or Disk Drill to recover deleted files.
- Download and install the software.
- Launch the program and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
- Run a scan to find lost files.
- Preview and select the files to recover, then save them to a new location.
Also Read: How to Remove Password from PDF file using Google Chrome
How to Recover Deleted Files on Mac
Mac users also have several options to recover deleted files. Here’s how to do it:
1. Check the Trash
Similar to the Recycle Bin on Windows, the Trash is the first place to check.
- Open the Trash by clicking its icon in the Dock.
- Find the files you want to recover.
- Right-click the files and select “Put Back” to restore them to their original location.
2. Use Time Machine
Time Machine is a built-in backup feature on Mac that allows you to recover deleted files from backups.
- Connect your Time Machine backup drive.
- Open the folder where the deleted file was located.
- Click the Time Machine icon in the menu bar and select “Enter Time Machine.”
- Browse through the backups to find the deleted file.
- Select the file and click “Restore.”
3. Restore Previous Versions with Versions
MacOS automatically saves versions of documents while you work, which can be used to recover deleted files.
- Open the document you want to restore a previous version of.
- Click “File” and select “Revert To” > “Browse All Versions.”
- Browse through the versions and restore the one you need.
4. Third-Party Data Recovery Software
If the above methods fail, third-party software like Disk Drill or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can help recover deleted files.
- Download and install the software.
- Launch the program and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
- Run a scan to find lost files.
- Preview and select the files to recover, then save them to a new location.
Also Read: How to Transfer Files Between Multiple Computers
Additional Tips for File Recovery
- Stop Using the Drive: To increase the chances of recovery, stop using the drive where the files were deleted to avoid overwriting them.
- Regular Backups: Regularly back up your data using built-in tools like Windows Backup and Restore or Time Machine on Mac to prevent future data loss.
- Use Reliable Recovery Tools: Always use reputable data recovery software to avoid further data loss and ensure a higher success rate.
Final Thoughts
Accidentally deleting files can be stressful, but with the right tools and techniques, you can often recover your lost data. Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, there are several built-in features and third-party tools available to help you recover deleted files. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently recover your important files and minimize data loss.
