Losing important files can be a nightmare for any computer user, but the good news is, there are various methods to recover lost or deleted files on Windows. This guide will walk you through some practical file recovery methods that are beginner-friendly and can help you get back those precious files and folders.
1. Check the Recycle Bin
One of the simplest and quickest ways to recover lost files is by checking the Recycle Bin. When you delete a file, it usually goes to the Recycle Bin first, unless permanently deleted with Shift + Delete. To recover files from the Recycle Bin:
– Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop to open it.
– Look through the list to find the file you need.
– Right-click the file and select ‘Restore’. This will return the file to its original location.
2. Use File History
Windows has a built-in feature called File History that allows you to restore previous versions of files. If you have enabled this feature, you can easily recover files:
– Go to the folder where the file was located.
– Right-click the folder and select ‘Restore previous versions’.
– A list of available previous versions will appear. Select the version you want to restore and click ‘Restore’.
3. System Restore
If your files were lost due to a system issue, using System Restore can sometimes help. This method restores your system to a previous state without affecting personal files:
– Type ‘Create a restore point’ in the Windows search bar and click on it.
– Click ‘System Restore’.
– Follow the prompts to restore your system to a point before the files were lost.
4. Glary Utilities File Recovery
For a more comprehensive approach to file recovery, consider using Glary Utilities. This tool offers a user-friendly interface and efficient file recovery solutions. To recover files using Glary Utilities:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from its official website.
– Open Glary Utilities and navigate to the ‘Modules’ tab.
– Under the ‘Privacy & Security’ section, click on ‘File Undelete’.
– Select the drive where the file was located and click ‘Scan’.
– Once the scan completes, browse through the list of recoverable files.
– Select the files you wish to recover and click ‘Restore’.
5. Third-Party Recovery Software
If the above methods do not yield results, you may need third-party recovery software. While there are many options available, be cautious when downloading and using these tools to avoid potential malware. A few reputable options include:
– Recuva: User-friendly and effective for recovering various file types.
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: Known for deep scan capabilities and a simple interface.
Before using any recovery software, ensure you stop using the drive where the lost files were located to avoid overwriting the data, making recovery more difficult.
6. Backup Solutions
Prevention is better than cure. Regular backups can save you from future file loss. Windows Backup and Restore or third-party backup solutions like Acronis True Image or Carbonite provide robust options for keeping your files safe.
In conclusion, file recovery on Windows can be approached from several angles, depending on the situation. Starting from simple checks like the Recycle Bin to advanced recovery tools like Glary Utilities, users have a range of options to try and bring back their lost files. Always remember to back up your data regularly to minimize the impact of unexpected data loss.