How do I recover deleted videos from my drive?

When you delete a file, it is not immediately removed from your drive. Instead, the operating system marks the space as available for new data. Until that space is overwritten, recovery is often possible.

Step-by-Step Recovery Process

1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash

Windows: Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking its icon on your desktop. Look for your deleted videos. If you find them, right-click and select “Restore” to recover them to their original location.

macOS: Open the Trash by clicking its icon in the Dock. If you see your videos, right-click and select “Put Back.”

2. Use File History (Windows)

If you have File History set up:

Go to the folder where the video was stored.

Click on the “Home” tab in the ribbon.

Click “History.” You can browse through previous versions of the folder and restore the video.

3. Use Time Machine (macOS)

If you have Time Machine enabled:

Open the folder where the video was located.

Click on the Time Machine icon in the menu bar and select “Enter Time Machine.”

Navigate through time to find the deleted video and click “Restore.”

4. Check Backup Services

If you use cloud storage services (like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive):

Log into your account and check the “Trash” or “Deleted Files” sections.

Many services keep deleted files for a certain period before permanently deleting them.

5. Use Data Recovery Software

If the above methods don’t work, you can try data recovery software. Here’s how to do it:

Choose a Recovery Software: Some popular options include:

Recuva (Windows): Free and user-friendly.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows/macOS): Paid with a free trial.

Disk Drill (Windows/macOS): User-friendly with a free trial.

PhotoRec (Windows/macOS/Linux): Open-source and powerful, but less user-friendly.

Install the Software:

Download and install the software on a different drive than the one you want to recover from. This prevents overwriting deleted files.

Run the Software:

Launch the recovery software and select the drive where the videos were stored.

Choose the type of files you want to recover (video files).

Scan for Deleted Files:

Start the scan. This may take some time depending on the size of the drive and the number of files.

Preview and Recover:

Once the scan is complete, preview the recoverable files. Select the videos you want to recover and choose a location to save them (again, not on the original drive to avoid overwriting).

6. Professional Data Recovery Services

If DIY methods fail, consider professional data recovery services. They can be expensive but are often the most effective option. Here’s how to choose a service:

Research: Look for reviews and ratings of local or online data recovery services.

Inquire About Specialties: Ensure they have experience with video file recovery and your specific type of drive (HDD, SSD, external, etc.).

Check Certifications: Look for certifications like ISO 9001. which indicates quality management.

Get a Quote: Many services offer free evaluations. Get an estimate before proceeding with the recovery.

7. Prevent Future Data Loss

To avoid losing videos and other important files in the future, consider these preventive measures:

Regular Backups: Use an external hard drive or cloud storage to regularly back up your files.

File Recovery Software: Keep a reliable recovery software installed and updated.

Organized File Management: Maintain an organized file structure to minimize accidental deletions.