Accidentally deleting important files or losing them due to system errors is a common problem for Windows users. Thankfully, Windows offers several file recovery options, and with the right steps, you can often restore your lost data. This guide covers essential file recovery methods, organized by skill level, to help you retrieve files and folders efficiently.
Beginner Methods: Easy File Recovery Techniques
1. Recovering Files from the Recycle Bin
When you delete a file or folder, Windows usually moves it to the Recycle Bin instead of permanently erasing it. Here’s how to recover those items:
– Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
– Browse for the deleted file or folder.
– Right-click the desired item.
– Choose Restore.
The file will be returned to its original location. This is the fastest and simplest recovery method for most accidental deletions.
2. Restoring Previous Versions with File History
File History is a built-in Windows feature that automatically saves copies of files in Libraries, Desktop, Contacts, and Favorites.
– Navigate to the folder where your lost file was located.
– Right-click on the folder or an empty area within it.
– Select Restore previous versions.
– In the new window, browse available versions and select the one you want.
– Click Restore to bring back the file or folder.
Note: File History must have been enabled before the loss for this method to work.
3. Checking for Recent Backups
If you use Windows Backup or another backup solution, restore the lost files from your backup archives. Open Settings > Update & Security > Backup to view your backup options and follow the prompts to restore files.
Intermediate Methods: Digging Deeper into Windows Recovery
1. Using Glary Utilities for File Undelete
Glary Utilities offers a powerful file undelete tool that scans your drives for recoverable deleted files.
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open Glary Utilities and go to the Advanced Tools section.
– Click on File Undelete.
– Select the drive where you lost files and click Search.
– Review the list of found files. Use search and filter options to narrow down results based on file name, type, or date.
– Select the files you want to recover and click Restore.
– Save the recovered files to a different drive if possible to avoid overwriting recoverable data.
Glary Utilities is especially helpful for finding files deleted outside the Recycle Bin or after emptying the Bin.
2. Using the Windows Command Prompt (for Advanced Users)
Sometimes, hidden system issues can cause files to disappear. The attrib command can help recover files hidden by viruses or system glitches.
– Open Command Prompt as Administrator (right-click Start and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin)).
– Type: attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.* (replace X: with the drive letter where files are missing).
– Press Enter.
This command removes Hidden, Read-only, and System attributes from files and folders, making them visible again.
Advanced Methods: Specialized Data Recovery
1. Restoring Files from Shadow Copies (System Restore Points)
Windows sometimes creates shadow copies (restore points) of your files. Access these as follows:
– Right-click the folder where the file was stored.
– Select Properties and go to the Previous Versions tab.
– Review the listed backup dates. Choose a version before your file was lost.
– Click Open to preview or Restore to recover.
This method works if System Protection was enabled and restore points exist.
2. Using Third-Party Data Recovery Software
If built-in methods fail, try specialized recovery programs. Glary Utilities remains a top recommendation due to its safety and ease of use, but advanced users might also try tools like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for deep scans, especially after formatting or partition issues.
Good Practices for Minimizing Data Loss
– Regularly back up important files using Windows Backup or Glary Utilities’ backup tools.
– Enable File History for automatic file versioning.
– Avoid saving new files to the drive where data was lost before running recovery, to maximize your chances.
– Use the file shredder feature in Glary Utilities for securely deleting files you never want to recover, protecting your privacy.
Conclusion
Losing files can be stressful, but Windows users have a range of effective recovery tools at their disposal. From simple Recycle Bin restores to advanced undelete solutions with Glary Utilities, most lost files can be recovered if you act quickly and use the right methods. Start with the beginner techniques, and if those don’t work, move on to more advanced recovery steps. Always remember: regular backups are the best defense against data loss.