Alex Ruben
How to Easily Restore Deleted Files in Windows 10 & 11
If you have accidentally deleted important files on your Windows PC, there’s no need to panic! In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn various methods to recover deleted files in Windows 10 and 11. From recovering files from the Recycle Bin to using advanced third-party recovery software, this guide will cover everything you need to know to restore your valuable data.
Step 1: Recover Files from the Recycle Bin
To start, if you’ve just deleted a file, check the Recycle Bin. Follow these steps:
- Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
- Locate the deleted file you want to restore.
- Right-click the file and select Restore. This will return the file to its original location.
Step 2: Use File History to Restore Previous Versions
If the file is not in the Recycle Bin, you can use Windows’ File History feature:
- Open the folder where the file was originally saved.
- Right-click on the folder and select Properties.
- Navigate to the Previous Versions tab.
- Select a backup version and click Restore to recover your file.
Step 3: Restore Deleted Files Using Windows Backup
If you have set up Backup and Restore, you can recover lost files from there:
- Type
Control Panelin the search bar and open it. - Select Backup and Restore (Windows 7).
- Click on Restore my files and follow the prompts to retrieve your files.
Step 4: Use Third-Party Recovery Software
If the files were permanently deleted, consider using third-party recovery tools:
- Download a recommended free data recovery software like Recuva or EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
- Install the software and open it.
- Select the drive from which you want to recover files and click Scan.
- After scanning, select the files you wish to recover and follow the software’s recovery instructions.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
To prevent future data loss:
- Regularly back up your files using Windows Backup or an external hard drive.
- Enable File History to keep backups of your important files automatically.
Common issues include not finding the lost files or the recovery software not detecting deleted items. Ensure your software is up-to-date and perform scans regularly.
Conclusion
Restoring deleted files in Windows 10 & 11 is a straightforward process if you know where to look. By using the Recycle Bin, File History, Windows Backup, and third-party tools, you can recover your important files with ease. Remember to back up your files regularly to avoid future data loss!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my files permanently if I delete them from the Recycle Bin?
Yes, if you empty the Recycle Bin, the files are marked for deletion and may be recovered using data recovery software if not overwritten.
Can I restore files if the backup is not updated?
If the backup is outdated or not available, recovery software may be your best option. Always ensure regular backups to prevent data loss.
Is recovery software always successful?
Not always. The success rate depends on factors like how much time has passed since deletion and whether the data has been overwritten. Always choose reputable recovery tools for the best chances of recovery.
