Losing important files or folders is a situation every Windows user dreads. Whether it’s a mistakenly deleted document, a formatted drive, or a system crash, your first instinct is to get those files back as quickly as possible. However, rushing into file recovery without proper knowledge can actually lower your chances of success. Let’s explore some of the most common file recovery mistakes Windows users make—and learn how to avoid them with practical, step-by-step advice.
Are You Overwriting Lost Data?
One of the biggest mistakes users make after losing files is continuing to use the affected drive. When you delete a file in Windows, the data isn’t immediately erased—it’s simply marked as available for overwriting. Any new files you save, downloads you initiate, or installations you perform (including recovery tools themselves) can overwrite your lost data, making recovery nearly impossible.
What You Should Do:
– As soon as you realize you’ve lost important files, stop using the drive immediately.
– If possible, unplug the drive or computer until you’re ready to attempt recovery.
– If your main Windows drive is affected, use a different computer to download recovery software and run it from an external device.
Are You Relying Only on the Recycle Bin?
Many users assume all deleted files go straight to the Recycle Bin, but that’s not always the case. Files deleted via Command Prompt, from external drives, or using Shift+Delete bypass the Recycle Bin entirely.
What You Should Do:
– Check the Recycle Bin first, but don’t rely solely on it.
– For files deleted from USB drives or network locations, use dedicated file recovery software.
Are You Using the Wrong Recovery Tools?
Not all file recovery tools are created equal. Some free utilities offer basic undelete features but may not be powerful enough for complex recovery scenarios, such as formatted drives or corrupted partitions. Conversely, advanced tools can be overwhelming and potentially dangerous in inexperienced hands.
For everyday Windows users, using a trusted, user-friendly solution such as Glary Utilities is a smart choice. Glary Utilities includes an easy-to-use File Undelete tool, which can scan your drives for recoverable files and restore them with just a few clicks. It’s designed for safety, minimizing the risk of overwriting valuable data during recovery.
Steps to recover deleted files with Glary Utilities:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from its official website.
2. Open Glary Utilities and go to the “Advanced Tools” tab.
3. Select “File Undelete.”
4. Choose the drive where your files were lost and click “Search.”
5. Locate your files in the list, select them, and click “Restore.”
6. Always recover files to a different drive or an external device to prevent overwriting.
Are You Ignoring Built-in Windows Recovery Options?
Before turning to third-party tools, many users overlook Windows’ own recovery features:
– File History: If you had File History enabled, you can restore previous versions of files.
– Previous Versions: Right-click a folder or file, select “Restore previous versions,” and browse available backups.
– OneDrive: If you use OneDrive, check the recycle bin online for deleted cloud files.
Always try these options before using recovery software—they’re often faster and safer.
Are You Failing to Plan for the Future?
Most users only think about file recovery after disaster strikes. Prevention is far better than cure. Regularly back up your files using Windows Backup, File History, or cloud storage solutions. Glary Utilities can help here, too—it offers maintenance features that keep your system healthy and less prone to file loss incidents, such as disk errors or system crashes.
Are You Forgetting to Check for Drive Errors?
Sometimes, file loss is caused by drive corruption or bad sectors. Running a disk check using Windows’ built-in CHKDSK tool can sometimes reveal and recover lost files. However, perform this only after you’ve tried to recover your files, as CHKDSK can sometimes make recovery harder if used incorrectly.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
If your lost data is extremely valuable and physical drive damage is suspected (such as unusual noises or failure to mount), stop all recovery attempts. Contact a professional data recovery service to prevent permanent data loss.
Conclusion
File recovery in Windows doesn’t have to be stressful—if you avoid these common mistakes. Stop using the affected drive, choose the right recovery tools such as Glary Utilities, fully explore built-in options, and always maintain regular backups. By following these practical steps, you’ll maximize your chances of getting your files and folders back safely the next time disaster strikes.