How to recover deleted files from pendrive?

​Recovering deleted files from a pen drive (also known as a USB flash drive) can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and methods, it’s entirely possible.

Pen drives are commonly used to store and transfer files. However, like all storage devices, they are not immune to data loss. Files can be deleted from a pen drive for a variety of reasons:

Accidental Deletion: You might have deleted a file unintentionally or by pressing the wrong button.

Corruption: A sudden interruption during file transfer, a virus attack, or improper removal of the pen drive can lead to file corruption or loss.

Formatting: If you accidentally format the pen drive, all files will be erased.

File System Errors: Damaged file systems or bad sectors can prevent you from accessing your files.

Fortunately, even if you’ve deleted files from a pen drive, they may still be recoverable, provided they haven’t been overwritten by new data.

When you delete a file from your pen drive, it doesn’t immediately get removed from the storage device. Instead, the operating system marks the space where the file was stored as “available.” The file remains in that space until new data is written over it. This means that as long as you don’t overwrite the deleted data with new files, there’s a good chance you can recover it.

Step 1: Stop Using the Pen Drive Immediately

The first thing you should do after realizing you’ve lost data is stop using the pen drive. Avoid saving new files or copying anything onto it. This will minimize the risk of overwriting the deleted data.

Step 2: Check the Recycle Bin (Windows)

If you’ve deleted the files from a pen drive using a computer, there’s a chance that they might have been moved to the Recycle Bin, especially if the deletion was accidental.

Open the Recycle Bin on your Windows computer.

Look for the files you need to recover.

Right-click the file(s) you want to restore and select Restore.

However, this only works if the files were deleted using Windows and not directly from the pen drive itself, or if the “Shift + Delete” shortcut wasn’t used.

Step 3: Using Windows File History or Previous Versions

If you have enabled File History on your Windows PC, you might be able to recover files from previous versions.

Connect your pen drive to your computer.

Navigate to the folder where your deleted files were located.

Right-click the folder and select Restore previous versions.

Choose a version from before the deletion date.

Click Restore to recover the folder or files.

Step 4: Try Data Recovery Software

Panda Assistant is an intuitive and powerful tool designed to assist users in managing, recovering, and protecting their data. It serves as a multifunctional assistant for handling various data-related tasks, including file recovery, backup solutions, and security measures. Whether you’re a novice or a more advanced user, Panda Assistant provides accessible and user-friendly solutions to safeguard your data.

Key Features of Panda Assistant

Data Recovery: One of the most essential functions of Panda Assistant is its ability to recover lost or deleted files. Whether the data was accidentally erased or lost due to system crashes, the tool offers robust recovery options. It supports recovery from a wide range of devices, including hard drives, SSDs, USB flash drives, SD cards, and more. The tool can recover different types of files, such as documents, photos, videos, and more.

Data Backup: Preventing data loss is equally important as recovering it, and Panda Assistant helps with this by offering reliable backup options. It allows users to create secure backups of essential files and folders. This can be scheduled for regular intervals, ensuring that you always have a recent copy of your important files in case something goes wrong with your primary storage device.

Security and Privacy: Data security is a top priority, and Panda Assistant offers tools to ensure the safety of your sensitive information. It features options like file encryption to protect your data from unauthorized access. Additionally, it can securely delete files, ensuring that they cannot be recovered by anyone else. This is especially useful when you need to dispose of personal or confidential files securely.

System Optimization: Panda Assistant also includes system optimization features that help improve your computer’s performance. This can involve tasks like cleaning up temporary files, removing junk files, and optimizing system settings for better speed and efficiency. These features ensure that your computer remains responsive and free of unnecessary clutter, which can slow it down over time.

User-Friendly Interface: One of the standout features of Panda Assistant is its easy-to-navigate interface. Even those who are not very tech-savvy can quickly understand how to use the software. The tool’s clean and simple design makes it accessible for all users, providing step-by-step guidance for performing various functions, from file recovery to setting up backups.

Compatibility: Panda Assistant is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows and macOS. This cross-platform functionality ensures that users from different environments can benefit from the software. Additionally, it supports a wide array of storage devices, making it a versatile tool for data management.

Step 5: Recover Files Using Command Prompt (Windows)

In some cases, you may be able to recover deleted files using the Command Prompt, especially if the pen drive is showing signs of corruption.

Step-by-step guide:

Open the Command Prompt by typing cmd in the Windows search bar and selecting Run as administrator.

Type chkdsk X: /f (replace “X” with the letter of your pen drive).

Press Enter. This command will check the pen drive for errors and attempt to fix them.

After the process is complete, check the pen drive to see if your deleted files have been restored.

Step 6: Use Linux to Recover Files (For Advanced Users)

If you’re familiar with Linux, you can use tools like TestDisk and PhotoRec to recover files from a pen drive.

TestDisk: This tool is especially useful if the partition table is damaged or lost. It can help you recover deleted files by scanning for lost partitions and rebuilding them.

Download and install TestDisk.

Open TestDisk and select the pen drive.

Follow the prompts to analyze the pen drive and search for lost partitions.

Once the partitions are found, TestDisk will allow you to recover files.

PhotoRec: This tool works well for recovering multimedia files (photos, videos, etc.) from damaged or corrupted pen drives.

Download and install PhotoRec.

Open PhotoRec and select your pen drive.

Choose the file types you want to recover (you can select specific types like .jpg, .mp4. etc.).

Let PhotoRec scan and recover the deleted files.

Step 7: Consult Professional Data Recovery Services

If you’ve tried the steps above and are still unable to recover your files, it may be time to consult professional data recovery services. These services use specialized equipment and expertise to recover data from damaged or corrupted storage devices.

Professional recovery services can often retrieve files from pen drives that are physically damaged, severely corrupted, or suffering from more complex issues. However, keep in mind that this service can be expensive, and there is no guarantee that all files will be recovered.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Data Loss in the Future

Once you’ve recovered your files, it’s a good idea to take preventive measures to avoid future data loss. Here are a few tips:

Backup Regularly: Always keep a backup of important files on a cloud service or another external device.

Safely Eject Your Pen Drive: Always eject your pen drive safely by using the “Safely Remove Hardware” option on your computer.

Avoid Using the Pen Drive on Public or Untrusted Systems: This reduces the risk of virus attacks and accidental deletion.

Use Encryption: Encrypt sensitive files to protect them from unauthorized access.

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