How to Get Deleted Files Back: A Comprehensive Guide
In today’s digital age, data loss can occur at any moment due to various reasons such as accidental deletion, system crashes, or malware attacks. When you lose important files, the first thing that comes to mind is how to get deleted files back. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on retrieving deleted files from different devices and situations.
1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash
The first and simplest step to recover deleted files is to check the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac). When you delete a file, it is often moved to this temporary storage location. To retrieve files from the Recycle Bin or Trash:
– On Windows, open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking on its icon on the desktop. Select the files you want to restore, right-click, and choose “Restore.”
– On Mac, open the Trash by clicking on its icon in the Dock. Select the files you want to recover, right-click, and choose “Put Back.”
2. Use File Recovery Software
If the files are not in the Recycle Bin or Trash, you can use file recovery software to scan your device and recover deleted files. Here are some popular file recovery tools:
– Recuva: A free file recovery tool for Windows and Mac.
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: A user-friendly tool that supports various file formats and devices.
– Disk Drill: Offers both free and paid versions, with advanced features for professional users.
To use file recovery software:
1. Download and install the chosen tool on your computer.
2. Launch the software and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process and wait for the software to complete.
4. Once the scan is finished, preview the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and proceed with the recovery process.
3. Restore from Backup
If you have a backup of your files, you can easily restore them from the backup. Here’s how to do it:
– On Windows, open File Explorer and navigate to the backup location (e.g., an external hard drive or cloud storage).
– On Mac, open the Finder and go to the backup location (e.g., an external hard drive or cloud storage).
– Locate the deleted files and copy them back to their original location or a new folder.
4. Contact a Professional Data Recovery Service
If the above methods do not work or if the deleted files are extremely important, it is advisable to contact a professional data recovery service. These experts have the necessary tools and expertise to recover files from physically damaged drives or complex data loss scenarios. However, this option can be expensive and time-consuming.
In conclusion, losing files can be a frustrating experience, but there are several ways to get deleted files back. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of recovering your important data. Remember to regularly back up your files to prevent future data loss.
