Recover deleted files from ssd windows 10

Losing important files can be a frustrating experience, especially when using Solid State Drives (SSDs). Unlike traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), SSDs have different data storage mechanisms that can affect recovery methods. 

SSDs and Data Deletion

Before diving into recovery methods, it’s essential to understand how SSDs work. Unlike HDDs, which store data magnetically, SSDs use flash memory. When you delete a file on an SSD, the operating system marks the space as available for new data rather than immediately overwriting it. This means that recovery is possible until new data occupies that space.

The TRIM Command

Windows 10 uses the TRIM command to optimize SSD performance. When a file is deleted, TRIM informs the SSD to clear the blocks, making recovery more difficult. If you suspect that a file has been deleted, it’s crucial to act quickly to increase the chances of recovery.

Method 1: Check the Recycle Bin

The first step in recovering deleted files is to check the Recycle Bin:

Open the Recycle Bin: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.

Locate Your File: Browse through the list or use the search function to find the deleted file.

Restore the File: Right-click the file and select “Restore.” This will return the file to its original location.

If your file isn’t in the Recycle Bin, you can move on to other recovery methods.

Method 2: Use File History

If you have enabled File History on Windows 10. you might be able to recover previous versions of your files:

Access File History:

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.

Click on “More options” under the Backup section.

Restore Files:

Click on “Restore files from a current backup.”

Browse through the available backups to locate the deleted file.

Select the file and click on the green “Restore” button.

Method 3: Use Windows Restore Points

If you have System Restore enabled, you may be able to recover files by restoring your system to an earlier point in time:

Access System Restore:

Search for “Create a restore point” in the Windows search bar and select it.

In the System Properties window, click on “System Restore.”

Select Restore Point:

Choose a restore point that predates the deletion of the file.

Follow the on-screen instructions to restore your system.

Method 4: Utilize Third-Party Data Recovery Software

If the previous methods don’t yield results, consider using third-party data recovery software. Here are a few popular options:

4.1 Recuva

Recuva is a user-friendly recovery tool that can help recover deleted files:

Download and Install Recuva: Visit the official website and download Recuva.

Run the Application: Launch Recuva and follow the setup wizard.

Select File Type: Choose the type of file you want to recover (e.g., documents, pictures).

Scan for Files: Select the location of the deleted files and click “Start.”

Recover Files: Browse the results, select the files you want to recover, and click “Recover.”

4.2 EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard

EaseUS offers a robust recovery solution:

Download and Install: Download the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard from their official site.

Run the Software: Launch the application and select the SSD drive.

Start Scanning: Click on “Scan” to search for deleted files.

Preview and Recover: After the scan, preview the recoverable files, select the ones you want, and click “Recover.”

4.3 Disk Drill

Disk Drill provides advanced scanning options and can recover various file types:

Install Disk Drill: Download it from the official website.

Launch Disk Drill: Open the application and select your SSD.

Choose Recovery Method: You can select “Quick Scan” for faster results or “Deep Scan” for a more thorough search.

Recover Files: Once the scan is complete, review the files and click “Recover” for the desired ones.

Method 5: Command Prompt Recovery

For tech-savvy users, the Command Prompt can be utilized for basic recovery tasks:

Open Command Prompt: Search for “cmd” in the Windows search bar and run it as an administrator.

Use the chkdsk Command: Type the following command, replacing X with your drive letter:

bash

chkdsk X: /f

Check for Recoverable Files: After the process, any recoverable files might be available in the “found” folder on the drive.

Method 6: Professional Data Recovery Services

If all else fails and the data is crucial, consider hiring a professional data recovery service. These services have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from SSDs effectively, but they can be costly.

Tips for Preventing Data Loss

Regular Backups: Always keep backups of important files using external drives or cloud services.

Enable File History: Set up Windows File History for automatic backups of your documents and files.

Be Cautious with TRIM: If you’re experimenting with recovery software, consider disabling TRIM temporarily (but be aware of the performance implications).

Recovering deleted files from an SSD on Windows 10 can be challenging, but with the right methods and tools, it’s often possible. Always start with the simplest solutions, like checking the Recycle Bin, and escalate to more advanced recovery options if necessary. Remember to implement regular backup strategies to safeguard your important data against future loss.