Accidentally deleting important files can be a distressing experience for Windows users, but with the right tools and techniques, file recovery is often possible. In this article, we’ll explore several effective methods for recovering lost files and folders, providing you with practical steps and expert recommendations to increase the chances of successful recovery.
1. Check the Recycle Bin
Before diving into advanced recovery techniques, start by checking the Recycle Bin. This is the default holding area for deleted files in Windows, and recovery from here is straightforward.
– Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
– Browse through the files to locate the ones you want to recover.
– Right-click the desired file or folder and select ‘Restore’. The items will be restored to their original location.
2. Use File History or Backup
If you have File History or another backup solution enabled, you can restore your files from these backups.
– Open the Start menu and type ‘File History’.
– Select ‘Restore your files with File History’.
– Browse through the available backups to find the version you want to restore.
– Click the green ‘Restore’ button to recover the selected files to their original location.
3. Employ Windows Previous Versions
Windows automatically creates restore points that can sometimes include previous versions of files.
– Right-click on the folder where the deleted file was stored.
– Select ‘Restore previous versions’.
– A list of available previous versions will appear. Choose the version you want to recover.
– Click ‘Restore’ to recover the file or ‘Open’ to view it before restoring.
4. Utilize Glary Utilities for File Recovery
For a comprehensive file recovery solution, Glary Utilities offers an effective toolset that can help recover lost files beyond what Windows native tools can achieve. Here’s how to use it:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open Glary Utilities and navigate to ‘Modules’.
– Select ‘Privacy & Security’ and then ‘File Undelete’.
– Choose the drive where the files were lost and click ‘Search’.
– After the scan, browse the list of recoverable files.
– Select the files you wish to recover and click ‘Restore’. Ensure you save them to a different drive to prevent overwriting.
5. Third-Party Recovery Software
In cases where the above methods do not yield results, third-party recovery software can be a viable option. Popular tools include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. These tools typically follow a similar process:
– Download and install the software.
– Run the software and choose the drive to scan for deleted files.
– Preview the list of recoverable files and select the ones you need.
– Follow the software prompts to recover the files.
Real-World Example
Consider a scenario where you accidentally deleted a folder containing important project documents. The first step is to check the Recycle Bin. If not found, you move on to File History or Previous Versions in Windows. If these options are unavailable or unsuccessful, Glary Utilities’ File Undelete feature can be a lifesaver, allowing you to scan and restore files with ease.
In conclusion, recovering deleted files and folders on Windows can often be accomplished using built-in tools, but when these fall short, Glary Utilities and other third-party software provide a robust solution. Remember to act quickly, as the chances of recovery decrease once new data overwrites the deleted files.