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Losing important files can be a nightmare, especially when you realize that you’ve accidentally deleted them. It happens to the best of us, and the good news is that there are ways to recover those deleted files on your computer. Whether it’s a crucial document, cherished family photos, or important work files, there are several methods you can try to retrieve them. In this blog post, we will explore different techniques and tools that you can use to recover deleted files on Windows 10.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10
There are several reasons why you might want to recover deleted files on your Windows 10 computer. Here are a few common scenarios:
1. Accidental Deletion: Sometimes, we mistakenly delete files that we didn’t want to get rid of. It could be a case of pressing the wrong button or deleting the wrong folder.
2. System Malfunction: Windows 10 systems aren’t perfect, and occasional malfunctions can lead to files being deleted without your knowledge or intention.
3. Hard Drive Failure: In some cases, a hard drive failure can result in the loss of important files. While this can be more complicated to recover, it is still possible in some instances.
4. Virus or Malware Infection: Malicious software can infect your computer and delete or corrupt files. Recovering these files becomes crucial to restore your system to a working state.
Method 1: How to Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10 Using File History
File History is a built-in feature in Windows 10 that automatically backs up your files to an external drive or network location. Here’s how you can use File History to recover deleted files:
1. Connect the external drive or access the network location where File History backups are stored.
2. Open the folder where the deleted file was originally located.
3. Right-click on the folder and select "Restore previous versions."
4. You will see a list of previous versions of the folder. Choose the version that contains the file you want to recover.
5. Click on the "Restore" button to recover the selected file. It will be restored to its original location.
Pros:
1. Easy and straightforward process to recover deleted files using File History.
2. The ability to restore files to their original location makes it convenient for recovering specific files.
Cons:
1. File History needs to be enabled and configured in advance for it to work.
2. Only works for files that have been backed up by File History.
Method 2: How to Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10 via Recycle Bin
The Recycle Bin is a temporary storage location for deleted files. By default, when you delete a file, it is moved to the Recycle Bin, where it can be easily recovered. Here’s how you can recover deleted files from the Recycle Bin:
1. Double-click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop to open it.
2. Locate the file you want to recover in the list of deleted files.
3. Right-click on the file and select "Restore" from the context menu.
4. The file will be restored to its original location.
Pros:
1. Quick and easy recovery process through the Recycle Bin.
2. Does not require any additional software or tools.
Cons:
1. Files can get permanently deleted if the Recycle Bin is emptied or if the file exceeds the Recycle Bin’s maximum size.
Method 3: How to Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10 Using File Recovery Software
If you can’t find your deleted files in the Recycle Bin or through File History, you can turn to file recovery software. These tools can scan your computer’s storage and attempt to recover deleted files. Here’s how you can use file recovery software:
1. Download and install a reputable file recovery software on your Windows 10 computer. There are several options available, such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.
2. Launch the software and select the drive or folder where the deleted file was originally located.
3. Start the scan process, either by clicking on a "Scan" button or selecting the appropriate option.
4. The software will scan for deleted files and display a list of recoverable files.
5. Choose the file you want to recover and select the "Recover" or "Restore" option.
6. Specify a location where you want to save the recovered file. It is recommended to choose a different drive to avoid overwriting the deleted file.
7. After the recovery process is complete, you should be able to access the recovered file in the specified location.
Pros:
1. Can recover deleted files even if they have been permanently deleted from the Recycle Bin.
2. Works for various file types, including documents, photos, videos, and more.
Cons:
1. Quality and success of file recovery can vary depending on the software used.
2. Some advanced file recovery tools may require a purchase or a paid license for full functionality.
Method 4: How to Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10 Using System Restore
System Restore is a feature in Windows 10 that allows you to revert your computer’s system files and settings to a previous point in time. While this method primarily focuses on system restoration, it can also help recover accidentally deleted files. Here’s how you can use System Restore to recover deleted files:
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type "rstrui" and hit Enter to open the System Restore window.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose a restore point and initiate the restoration process.
4. After the restoration is complete, check the folder where the deleted file was located to see if it has been recovered.
Pros:
1. Can recover both system files and accidentally deleted files.
2. Doesn’t require any additional software if System Restore is already enabled.
Cons:
1. System Restore may not always result in the recovery of deleted files.
2. Only works if a restore point with the deleted file still exists.
What to Do If You Can’t Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10
If none of the above methods work or if you are unable to recover your deleted files using the available options, here are a few additional fixes you can try:
1. Check for backup copies: Look for any backup copies of the deleted files on external hard drives, cloud storage, or other devices.
2. Contact a professional data recovery service: If the deleted files are highly critical and cannot be recovered through software, consider reaching out to a professional data recovery service for assistance.
3. Prevent overwriting: Stop using the drive or storage device where the deleted files were located to prevent overwriting them. Continued usage can lower the chances of recovery.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips to help you improve your chances of recovering deleted files on Windows 10:
1. Act quickly: The sooner you start the recovery process, the better chances you have of retrieving your deleted files. Avoid using the computer or the affected drive to minimize the risk of permanent deletion.
2. Use the search feature: If you have an idea of the file name or its content, use the search function in Windows 10 to search for the deleted file. It might still be hiding in a different location.
3. Enable the "Show hidden files" option: Deleted files can sometimes be marked as hidden. Enabling the "Show hidden files" option in Windows File Explorer can help you locate these files.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I recover permanently deleted files on Windows 10?
A: In some cases, yes. File recovery software can often retrieve files that have been permanently deleted from the Recycle Bin.
Q2: How long do deleted files stay in the Recycle Bin?
A: By default, deleted files stay in the Recycle Bin until it reaches its maximum size or until you manually empty the Recycle Bin.
Q3: What types of files can be recovered using file recovery software?
A: File recovery software can recover various file types, including documents, photos, videos, audio files, and more.
Q4: Can I recover deleted files from an external hard drive on Windows 10?
A: Yes, the methods mentioned in this blog post can be used to recover deleted files from external hard drives connected to a Windows 10 computer.
Q5: How can I prevent future data loss on Windows 10?
A: To prevent future data loss, it is important to regularly back up your files, maintain up-to-date antivirus software, and be cautious when deleting files.
Final Thoughts
Losing files can be a stressful experience, but with the right methods and tools, you can increase your chances of recovering deleted files on Windows 10. Start with the built-in options like the Recycle Bin and File History, and if those are unsuccessful, try using file recovery software or System Restore. Remember to act quickly, avoid overwriting the deleted files, and consider professional help if needed. With a proactive approach and the right techniques, you can minimize data loss and protect your important files.