How to recover deleted files from your computer？

Recovering deleted files from your computer can be a challenging process, especially if you are not familiar with the tools and techniques available. 

1. Understanding File Deletion

When you delete a file from your computer, it is typically moved to the Recycle Bin (or Trash on macOS). However, once you empty the Recycle Bin or if you delete a file directly using Shift + Delete, the file is not immediately removed from your hard drive. Instead, the file system marks the space previously occupied by the file as available for new data. Until new data overwrites this space, recovery is often possible.

2. Recovering Files from the Recycle Bin

Windows:

Open the Recycle Bin:

Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.

Locate the Deleted File:

Browse through the list of deleted files or use the search function.

Restore the File:

Right-click on the file you want to recover and select “Restore.”

The file will be returned to its original location.

macOS:

Open the Trash:

Click on the Trash icon in the dock.

Locate the Deleted File:

Browse through the Trash or use the search function.

Restore the File:

Right-click (or Control-click) on the file and select “Put Back.”

The file will be returned to its original location.

3. Using File History or Backup

Windows File History:

Access File History:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.

Restore Files:

Click on “More options” under Backup.

Select “Restore files from a current backup” and browse through your backups to locate and restore the deleted file.

macOS Time Machine:

Connect the Backup Drive:

Ensure your Time Machine backup drive is connected.

Open Time Machine:

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

Restore Files:

Use the timeline on the right side to navigate to a time before the file was deleted.

Find and select the file, then click “Restore.”

4. Recovering Files Using System Restore

System Restore can help recover system files and settings but is not designed to recover personal files. It is useful if the file deletion is related to a system change or error.

Windows:

Open System Restore:

Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System > System Protection.

Run System Restore:

Click on “System Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system to a previous state where the file was present.

macOS:

macOS does not have a direct equivalent to System Restore for personal files. However, you can use Time Machine or other backup solutions if configured.

5. Using Data Recovery Software

If the file is not in the Recycle Bin or Backup, you may need to use data recovery software. These tools can scan your hard drive for remnants of deleted files and attempt to recover them.

Popular Data Recovery Software:

Recuva (Windows):

Download and install Recuva.

Open the program and choose the file type you want to recover.

Select the location where the file was last stored.

Click “Scan” and review the results.

Select the files you want to recover and click “Recover.”

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows/macOS):

Download and install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.

Open the program and select the drive to scan.

Click “Scan” and wait for the results.

Review the list of recoverable files, select those you want, and click “Recover.”

Disk Drill (Windows/macOS):

Download and install Disk Drill.

Open the program and select the drive where the file was located.

Click “Search for lost data” and wait for the scan to complete.

Preview and select the files you wish to recover and click “Recover.”

Tips for Using Data Recovery Software:

Stop Using the Drive: To maximize recovery chances, avoid writing new data to the drive after file deletion.

Use a Different Drive: Install the recovery software on a different drive or external device to prevent overwriting data on the affected drive.

6. Professional Data Recovery Services

If you cannot recover the file using the methods above, professional data recovery services may be your best option. These services use advanced techniques to recover data from damaged or corrupted drives.

Choosing a Professional Service:

Research and Reviews:

Look for reputable companies with positive customer reviews.

Service Options:

Some services offer free diagnostics, while others may charge based on the complexity of the recovery.

Cost:

Be prepared for potentially high costs, depending on the severity of the data loss and the service provider.

Data Confidentiality:

Ensure the company has strict data confidentiality policies.

7. Preventing Future Data Loss

To avoid future data loss, consider implementing the following practices:

Regular Backups:

Use built-in backup solutions like Windows File History or macOS Time Machine.

Consider additional cloud backup services for offsite storage.

Use Reliable Storage Devices:

Invest in high-quality external hard drives or SSDs.

Implement Data Redundancy:

Use RAID configurations or other redundancy methods for critical data.

Keep Software Updated:

Ensure your operating system and software are up-to-date to avoid vulnerabilities and bugs.

Be Cautious with Deletions:

Verify that files are not needed before deleting them and avoid using Shift + Delete if unsure.

Recovering deleted files from your computer involves several methods, from checking the Recycle Bin or Trash to using specialized data recovery software. In cases where these methods fail, professional data recovery services can offer a last resort. By implementing regular backup strategies and being cautious with file management, you can minimize the risk of data loss in the future.