How to recover deleted files in Windows Explorer
Losing important files can be a distressing experience, especially when they are deleted accidentally. Windows Explorer, the default file manager in Windows, provides a few methods to help you recover deleted files. In this article, we will discuss various techniques to recover deleted files in Windows Explorer and ensure that your data is not lost forever.
1. Check the Recycle Bin
The first and simplest step to recover deleted files is to check the Recycle Bin. When you delete a file, it is usually moved to the Recycle Bin instead of being permanently deleted. To recover a file from the Recycle Bin, follow these steps:
1. Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking on its icon on the desktop.
2. Locate the deleted file you want to recover.
3. Right-click on the file and select “Restore.”
4. The file will be restored to its original location.
2. Use the “Undo Delete” feature
If you have deleted a file recently, you can use the “Undo Delete” feature to recover it. This feature is available in the context menu when you right-click on the empty space in Windows Explorer. To use this feature:
1. Open Windows Explorer and navigate to the location where the file was deleted.
2. Right-click on the empty space in the folder and select “Undo Delete.”
3. The deleted file will be restored to its original location.
3. Use the “Previous Versions” feature
The “Previous Versions” feature allows you to restore files from a previous point in time. This feature is particularly useful if you have enabled System Restore on your computer. To use the “Previous Versions” feature:
1. Right-click on the folder where the deleted file was located and select “Restore previous versions.”
2. A list of available restore points will be displayed. Select the restore point that contains the deleted file.
3. Double-click on the restore point to open it.
4. Locate the deleted file and copy it to a new location.
4. Use third-party file recovery software
If the above methods do not work, you can use third-party file recovery software to recover your deleted files. These tools are designed to scan your hard drive and recover deleted files, even if they have been emptied from the Recycle Bin. Some popular file recovery software options include:
– Recuva
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
– Stellar Data Recovery
To use third-party file recovery software:
1. Download and install the chosen file recovery software.
2. Run the software and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process.
4. Once the scan is complete, locate the deleted files and select them for recovery.
5. Choose a new location to save the recovered files and click “Recover.”
5. Seek professional help
If all else fails, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Data recovery specialists have advanced tools and techniques to recover deleted files from damaged or corrupted hard drives. However, this option can be expensive and may not always guarantee a successful recovery.
In conclusion, recovering deleted files in Windows Explorer can be achieved through various methods, including checking the Recycle Bin, using the “Undo Delete” feature, utilizing the “Previous Versions” feature, employing third-party file recovery software, or seeking professional help. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of recovering your deleted files and restoring your important data.
