How to recover permanently deleted files in computer？

​Recovering permanently deleted files from a computer can be a challenging task, but it is often possible, depending on several factors. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed methods, tools, and strategies to help you retrieve your lost data. We’ll cover the technical aspects, various recovery options, and preventive measures to avoid future data loss.

1. Data Deletion

What Happens When You Delete Files

When you delete a file, it does not immediately disappear from your hard drive. Instead, the operating system marks the space occupied by the file as available for new data, making it inaccessible to the user. The actual data remains on the drive until it is overwritten by new data.

Types of Deletion

Soft Delete: When you delete a file, it moves to the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac), allowing for easy recovery.

Hard Delete: Permanently deleting a file bypasses the Recycle Bin, making recovery more difficult but not impossible.

The Importance of Quick Action

The sooner you attempt to recover deleted files, the better your chances of success. When you delete a file, the space it occupied can be overwritten by new data. Acting quickly can minimize the risk of losing recoverable data.

2. Methods for Recovery

Checking the Recycle Bin

Before attempting any complex recovery methods, check the Recycle Bin:

Open the Recycle Bin: Locate it on your desktop.

Search for the File: Look for the deleted file. You can use the search bar for efficiency.

Restore the File: Right-click the file and select “Restore.”

Using File History or Backup Solutions

If you have set up Windows File History or a backup solution, you can restore previous versions of files:

Access File History:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.

Click on More Options to manage your backups.

Restore from Backup:

Browse through the backups and select the file version you wish to restore.

Click Restore to recover the file.

Utilizing Recovery Software

If the file is not in the Recycle Bin and you don’t have a backup, recovery software can help:

Choose a Recovery Software:

Panda Assistant stands out in the crowded data recovery market due to its user-friendly interface and powerful recovery capabilities. The software utilizes advanced algorithms to perform thorough scans of your devices, recovering files that may seem permanently lost. With support for a wide range of file formats including documents, images, videos, and audio files Panda Assistant ensures that you can retrieve virtually any type of data.

Key Features

Intuitive User Interface:

One of Panda Assistant’s most significant advantages is its user-friendly design. The software is easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all skill levels. The clear layout guides you through the recovery process step-by-step, reducing the intimidation factor often associated with data recovery software.

Comprehensive Scanning Options:

Panda Assistant offers multiple scanning modes to suit your needs. The Quick Scan option is perfect for recently deleted files, while the Deep Scan mode performs a more thorough search for files that may have been lost due to formatting or corruption. This versatility ensures that you can recover data in various scenarios.

Preview Functionality:

Before recovering files, users can preview recoverable data. This feature allows you to confirm the file you wish to restore, saving time and ensuring you only recover what you need. Whether it’s a document, photo, or video, the preview option adds an extra layer of confidence to the recovery process.

Support for Multiple File Formats:

Panda Assistant supports a vast array of file formats, making it a versatile tool for data recovery. From common document formats like DOCX and PDF to multimedia files such as JPEG, MP4. and MP3. you can retrieve virtually any file type you may have lost.

Multiple Device Compatibility:

The software is compatible with various storage devices, including internal and external hard drives, USB flash drives, and memory cards. This flexibility ensures that no matter where your data is stored, Panda Assistant can help you recover it.

Scheduled Backups:

To prevent future data loss, Panda Assistant includes a scheduling feature for regular backups. This proactive approach allows users to automatically back up important files at set intervals, minimizing the risk of losing critical data.

Robust Customer Support:

Users of Panda Assistant benefit from comprehensive customer support, including detailed documentation, FAQs, and direct assistance from a support team. This resource is invaluable for troubleshooting and ensuring a smooth recovery process.

Install the Software: Download and install the recovery software on a different drive to avoid overwriting lost data.

Run a Scan: Launch the software and select the drive where the deleted files were located. Start the scanning process.

Review the Results: After the scan completes, browse through the recoverable files. Preview them if possible.

Recover the Files: Select the files you wish to recover and follow the prompts to save them to a different location.

Command Prompt Methods

For users comfortable with command line tools, the Command Prompt can assist in recovery:

Open Command Prompt: Search for “cmd” in the start menu and run it as an administrator.

Use the ATTRIB Command: This command can sometimes recover hidden files.

Type the following command: ATTRIB -H -R -S /S /D X:*.*

Replace X with the drive letter where the files were located.

Check for Recovered Files: Navigate to the drive to see if the files have been restored.

Professional Data Recovery Services

If the above methods fail, consider contacting professional data recovery services:

Research Local Services: Look for reputable data recovery specialists in your area.

Consult the Professionals: Discuss your situation and ask about their recovery process.

Prepare for Costs: Be aware that professional services can be expensive, often ranging from $100 to $2000. depending on the complexity of the recovery.

3. Step-by-Step Recovery Processes

Recovering from the Recycle Bin

Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.

Look for your file. Use the search function if needed.

Right-click the file and select Restore.

Restoring from File History

Go to Settings and select Update & Security.

Click on Backup and select More Options.

Look for your file under Back up files and select the version you want to restore.

Click Restore.

Using Third-Party Recovery Software

Install recovery software on a separate drive.

Run the software and select the affected drive.

Start the scan and wait for the results.

Select the files you want to recover and save them to a different location.

Command Prompt Recovery Steps

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Type ATTRIB -H -R -S /S /D X:*.* and press Enter (replace X with the drive letter).

Check the drive for recovered files.

Contacting Data Recovery Professionals

Find a local data recovery service.

Describe your issue and ask for an evaluation.

Review their recovery plan and cost estimates.

4. Preventive Measures

To avoid future data loss, consider implementing the following preventive measures:

Regular Backups

Use Built-in Tools: Utilize Windows Backup or Mac Time Machine for regular backups.

External Drives: Invest in an external hard drive for backups.

Using Cloud Storage

Popular Services: Use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive to store important files.

Automatic Syncing: Set up automatic syncing for ease of use.

Creating Restore Points

Windows System Restore: Create restore points to revert the system to previous states.