How to Get Recently Deleted Files
In the digital age, data loss can be a distressing experience. Whether it’s an accidental deletion or a system crash, losing important files can feel like a disaster. But fear not, as there are several methods to retrieve recently deleted files. This article will guide you through the process of how to get recently deleted files, ensuring that your precious data is not lost forever.
Check the Recycle Bin or Trash
The first and simplest step in retrieving deleted files is to check the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac). When you delete a file, it is often moved to these temporary storage locations instead of being permanently deleted. To access the Recycle Bin or Trash:
– On Windows, click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop. Open the folder, and you should see the deleted files listed.
– On Mac, open the Trash by clicking on the Trash icon on the dock. The deleted files will be displayed in the Trash folder.
If you find the deleted files in the Recycle Bin or Trash, simply right-click on them and select “Restore” to recover them to their original location.
Use File Recovery Software
If the deleted files are not in the Recycle Bin or Trash, or if you have emptied them, you can use file recovery software to retrieve them. There are many reliable file recovery tools available, such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. Here’s how to use file recovery software:
1. Download and install a file recovery tool of your choice.
2. Launch the software and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
3. Run a scan to search for deleted files.
4. Once the scan is complete, preview the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and click “Recover.”
Check for Shadow Copies
Windows has a built-in feature called Shadow Copies, which automatically creates copies of files and folders at specific intervals. You can use Shadow Copies to restore deleted files. To check for Shadow Copies:
1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the location of the deleted files.
2. Right-click on the folder and select “Restore previous versions.”
3. A list of available versions will be displayed. Select the version that contains the deleted files.
4. Double-click on the version to open it, and then copy the deleted files to a new location.
Use System Restore
If the deleted files were lost due to a system crash or other issues, you can use System Restore to revert your computer to a previous state. To use System Restore:
1. Open the Start menu and type “System Restore” in the search bar.
2. Click on “Create a restore point” to open the System Properties window.
3. Click on “System Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point before the deletion occurred.
4. Click “Next,” and then “Finish” to start the restore process.
Conclusion
Losing recently deleted files can be a frustrating experience, but there are several ways to retrieve them. By checking the Recycle Bin or Trash, using file recovery software, checking for Shadow Copies, and utilizing System Restore, you can ensure that your deleted files are not lost forever. Remember to act quickly, as the chances of recovering deleted files decrease over time.
