Losing important files or folders on your Windows PC can be stressful, whether it’s due to accidental deletion, formatting, or system errors. Thankfully, Windows provides several built-in and third-party options to help you recover lost data. This beginner’s guide will walk you through practical file recovery methods, offering easy-to-follow steps and real-world examples, with sections for both novice and advanced users. We’ll also highlight how Glary Utilities can simplify and enhance recovery efforts.
What Should You Do First When You Lose a File?
Before jumping into recovery tools, follow these immediate steps:
– Stop using the drive where the file was stored. Continued use may overwrite deleted files, making recovery harder.
– Check the Recycle Bin. Deleted files are often found here and can be restored quickly.
How to Recover Files from the Recycle Bin (Beginner)
1. Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Look for the file or folder you want to recover. You can use the search bar if you remember the name.
3. Right-click the file and select “Restore.”
The file will return to its original location.
What if the File Is Not in the Recycle Bin? (Beginner & Intermediate)
If you’ve emptied the Recycle Bin or the file isn’t there, try these options.
Using Windows File History (Beginner)
Windows File History can restore earlier versions of files or folders if it was set up beforehand.
1. Open the folder where the file was originally located.
2. Right-click inside the folder and select “Properties.”
3. Go to the “Previous Versions” tab.
4. If available, select a version and click “Restore.”
Tip: To set up File History, type “File History” in the Start menu and follow the prompts to turn it on and select a backup drive.
Restoring from OneDrive (Beginner)
If your files were synced with Microsoft OneDrive:
1. Open the OneDrive folder or go to OneDrive online.
2. Check the “Recycle bin” in OneDrive for deleted files.
3. Select the file and click “Restore.”
Using Glary Utilities for Easy File Recovery (Beginner & Intermediate)
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive PC maintenance tool that simplifies recovery tasks and is especially friendly for less technical users.
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Open Glary Utilities and click on the “Advanced Tools” tab.
3. Select “File Recovery.”
4. Choose the drive where the file was lost and start a scan.
5. Browse the results and select files you want to recover.
6. Click “Restore” and choose a safe location (preferably on a different drive).
Benefits:
– Simple step-by-step interface.
– Scans for files deleted even outside the Recycle Bin.
– Shows file recoverability status for better decisions.
What Advanced File Recovery Methods Are Available? (Advanced Users)
If built-in methods don’t work, consider the following advanced options.
Using Windows Command Prompt with ATTRIB (Advanced)
Sometimes, files are hidden by malware or system issues. Use this method to unhide them:
1. Press Windows Key + R, type “cmd,” and press Enter.
2. Type the following command (replace X: with your drive letter):
attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.\*
3. Press Enter and check if your files are visible.
Using System Restore (Advanced)
For system-wide issues affecting files and folders:
1. Type “System Restore” in the Start menu and open it.
2. Follow prompts to restore your system to an earlier point.
3. Note: This affects installed programs and settings but can sometimes recover lost files.
Third-Party File Recovery Tools (Advanced)
Other than Glary Utilities, tools like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard offer in-depth scanning, but always use trusted sources to avoid malware.
How Can You Prevent Future Data Loss?
– Regularly back up your files using Windows Backup, File History, or cloud services.
– Use Glary Utilities’ backup and system maintenance features for scheduled cleanups and registry fixes.
– Avoid storing important files only on one drive or partition.
Conclusion
Recovering lost files and folders in Windows is achievable with the right approach. Beginners should always start with the Recycle Bin and built-in options like File History and OneDrive. Glary Utilities provides a user-friendly way to recover files, making complex recovery accessible to everyone. Advanced users have additional command-line and third-party tool options when needed. By learning these methods and practicing regular backups, both beginners and advanced users can safeguard their valuable data with confidence.