How to Get Back Deleted Files: A Comprehensive Guide
In today’s digital age, losing important files can be a frustrating and distressing experience. Whether it’s a cherished photo, a crucial document, or a valuable project, the thought of permanently losing these files can be overwhelming. However, there are several methods and tools available to help you recover deleted files. In this article, we will explore various ways on how to get back deleted files and provide you with a comprehensive guide to restore your lost data.
1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash Folder
The first and simplest step to recover deleted files is to check the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash Folder (Mac). When you delete a file, it is usually moved to these folders instead of being permanently deleted. To restore the file:
– On Windows, open the Recycle Bin and right-click on the file you want to recover. Select “Restore” to place it back in its original location.
– On Mac, open the Trash Folder and drag the file to the desired location or right-click and choose “Put Back” to restore it to its original folder.
2. Use File Recovery Software
If the deleted files are not in the Recycle Bin or Trash Folder, you can try using file recovery software. These programs scan your computer’s storage devices for deleted files and attempt to recover them. Here are some popular file recovery software options:
– Recuva: A user-friendly file recovery tool available for both Windows and Mac.
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: A versatile file recovery program that supports various file formats and offers a free trial version.
– Disk Drill: A comprehensive data recovery tool that provides both free and paid versions.
To use file recovery software:
1. Download and install the chosen software on your computer.
2. Launch the program and select the storage device where the deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process and wait for the program to find the deleted files.
4. Preview the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and click “Recover” to save them.
3. Restore from Backup
If you have a backup of your files, restoring them from the backup is the simplest way to get back deleted files. Ensure that you have a recent backup, and follow these steps:
– On Windows, open File Explorer and navigate to the backup location.
– On Mac, open the Finder and go to the backup location.
– Locate the deleted files and copy them back to their original location or create a new folder for them.
4. Use the Previous Versions Feature
Windows provides a built-in feature called “Previous Versions” that allows you to restore files from previous versions saved on your computer. To use this feature:
1. Right-click on the folder or file you want to recover and select “Restore Previous Versions.”
2. A list of available previous versions will appear. Select the version you want to restore from and click “Restore.”
5. Consult a Professional Data Recovery Service
If all the above methods fail, or if the deleted files are of high importance, it is advisable to consult a professional data recovery service. These services have advanced tools and expertise to recover even the most complex deleted files. However, this option can be expensive, so it is best used as a last resort.
In conclusion, losing deleted files can be a challenging situation, but there are several ways to get them back. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of recovering your lost data. Remember to act quickly and avoid writing new files to the storage device where the deleted files were located, as this can overwrite the deleted files and make recovery more difficult.
