NTFS recover deleted files

The New Technology File System (NTFS) is a file system used by Windows operating systems that offers advanced features such as journaling, security permissions, and efficient data management. However, despite its robustness, data loss can occur due to accidental deletions, hardware failures, or corruption. Fortunately, recovering deleted files from NTFS is possible with the right techniques and tools.

NTFS and Data Deletion

When you delete a file on an NTFS drive, the operating system marks the space it occupied as available for new data. However, the actual data remains on the disk until it is overwritten by new data. This characteristic is what makes data recovery possible, especially if you act quickly before the deleted data is overwritten.

Key Concepts of NTFS Data Deletion:

MFT (Master File Table): NTFS maintains an MFT that contains metadata about every file and directory on the drive. When you delete a file, the entry in the MFT is marked as deleted, but the data blocks may remain intact.

Free Space: The area marked as free space is where new data can be written. If new files are created or existing files are modified, the chances of overwriting deleted data increase.

Understanding these concepts is crucial for successful recovery.

Step-by-Step Guide to Recovering Deleted Files from NTFS

Step 1: Stop Using the Affected Drive

As soon as you realize that files have been deleted, cease all operations on the affected NTFS drive. This includes saving new files, installing software, or running applications. Continued use increases the risk of overwriting the deleted files, making recovery more challenging.

Step 2: Assess the Situation

Determine the nature of the file deletion:

Accidental Deletion: Files removed from the Recycle Bin may still be recoverable.

Formatted Drive: If the entire drive was formatted, recovery might be more complex.

Corrupted Files: Corruption may prevent file access, but recovery is still possible.

Understanding the circumstances will guide your recovery approach.

Step 3: Choose a Recovery Method

There are several methods to recover deleted files from NTFS drives. Choose one based on your comfort level and the severity of data loss.

Method 1: Check the Recycle Bin

If you accidentally deleted a file, it might be in the Recycle Bin. To restore:

Open the Recycle Bin from your desktop or File Explorer.

Look for the deleted files.

Right-click the desired file and select Restore.

Method 2: Use File History (Windows Backup)

If you have File History enabled, you can restore deleted files easily:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.

Click on More options.

Select Restore files from a current backup.

Browse through your backups to find the deleted files, and click Restore.

Method 3: Use Data Recovery Software

Panda Assistant is an innovative data recovery software designed to help users retrieve lost, deleted, or formatted files from various storage devices, including hard drives, USB drives, and SD cards. With a user-friendly interface, Panda Assistant makes it easy for anyone, regardless of technical skill, to recover important data quickly and efficiently.

The software employs advanced scanning algorithms that thoroughly analyze storage media to locate and restore a wide range of file types, including photos, documents, videos, and more. Whether files were deleted accidentally, lost due to a system crash, or the device was formatted, Panda Assistant offers powerful solutions to recover valuable information.

How to Use Data Recovery Software:

Download and Install the Software: Choose a reliable recovery tool and install it on a different drive than the one you want to recover from to avoid overwriting data.

Launch the Software: Open the application and select the NTFS drive from which you want to recover files.

Scan the Drive: Choose a deep scan option if available, as this will search for deleted files more thoroughly.

Preview the Results: After the scan completes, browse through the list of recoverable files. Many tools allow you to preview files before recovery.

Recover the Files: Select the files you want to restore and choose a location on a different drive to save them. Avoid saving them back to the original drive to prevent potential overwriting.

Step 4: Perform Manual Recovery (Advanced)

If you have experience with command-line tools or data recovery methods, you might attempt manual recovery. Here’s how to use the Windows Command Prompt:

Open Command Prompt: Press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

Use the CHKDSK Command: This command checks the file system for errors and may help recover lost files.

bash

chkdsk X: /f

Replace X: with the letter of the NTFS drive.

Use the ATTRIB Command: This command can help recover hidden or system files that might not be visible.

bash

attrib -h -r -s X:\path\to\file

Replace X:\path\to\file with the path of the file you want to recover.

Explore Shadow Copies: Windows may have created shadow copies of your files. To access them:

Open the File History or Previous Versions feature.

Right-click the folder containing the deleted file and select Restore Previous Versions.

Step 5: Seek Professional Data Recovery Services

If the above methods fail, and the data is critical, consider professional data recovery services. These companies specialize in recovering data from damaged or corrupted drives and can use advanced techniques to retrieve lost files. However, this option can be expensive.

Additional Tips for Successful Recovery

Act Quickly: The sooner you attempt recovery, the better your chances.

Backup Regularly: Use external drives or cloud storage to back up important files.

Use Reliable Software: Ensure that the recovery software you choose is reputable and has good reviews.

Avoid Writing New Data: As mentioned, refrain from using the affected drive until recovery attempts are complete.

Be Wary of Free Software: Some free recovery tools may come with risks, such as malware. Always download from trusted sources.