How to Recover Deleted Files

Written by: Jay H.

Accidentally deleting important files can be a stressful experience, but thankfully, there are multiple ways to recover lost data. We will guide you through various methods to recover deleted files on different systems, including Windows and Mac.

Why Files Get Deleted

Files can be deleted for several reasons:

1. Human Error:
   • Mistakenly selecting the wrong file for deletion is a common issue. For instance, you might be clearing out old files and accidentally select an important document.
   • Using commands like Shift + Delete on Windows can permanently delete files without moving them to the Recycle Bin.
2. Software Issues:
   • Crashes or bugs in software applications can sometimes result in data loss. For example, a crash during a save operation might corrupt or delete the file you were working on.
   • Though rare, certain software updates or installations can also lead to unintentional deletions if they alter system settings or file structures.
3. Hardware Failures:
   • Problems with storage devices, such as hard drive malfunctions or failures, can cause data corruption or loss.
   • Physical damage to the storage medium, such as dropping a laptop or external hard drive, can make files inaccessible.

Initial Steps to Take

Before diving into more advanced recovery methods, follow these initial steps:

1. Stop Using the Affected Drive:
   • Avoid adding new files or data to the drive where the file was deleted. This prevents overwriting the space previously occupied by the deleted file. Continuing to use the drive increases the risk that the deleted data will be overwritten, making recovery more difficult or impossible.
2. Check the Recycle Bin/Trash:
   • Often, deleted files are moved to the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac) and can be easily restored from there. Open the Recycle Bin or Trash and browse for the deleted files. If you find them, right-click and select Restore (Windows) or Put Back (Mac) to return them to their original locations.
   • If you regularly empty your Recycle Bin/Trash, it may still be worth checking, as sometimes files can be recovered before the next system cleanup.

Recovering Deleted Files on Windows

Method 1: Restore from Recycle Bin

1. Open Recycle Bin: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Find the File: Browse or use the search bar to locate the deleted file.
3. Restore the File: Right-click the file and select Restore. The file will be returned to its original location.

Method 2: Use File History

1. Open Control Panel: Go to the Control Panel from the Start menu.
2. File History: Click on File History and then Restore personal files.
3. Locate the File: Browse through the available backups to find the file.
4. Restore: Select the file and click the Restore button to recover it to its original location.

Method 3: Third-Party Recovery Software

If the above methods fail, third-party recovery software can be an effective solution. Popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.

1. Download and Install: Choose a reliable data recovery software and install it on your computer.
2. Scan for Deleted Files: Open the software and select the drive where the file was deleted. Initiate a scan.
3. Preview and Recover: Once the scan is complete, preview the recoverable files and select the ones you wish to restore. Follow the software’s instructions to recover the files.

Method 4: Check with Your Managed IT Services Provider

If you’re using a managed IT services provider (MSP) such as Design2Web IT to maintain backups of your business data, they may have copies of the deleted files. Get in contact with your MSP to see if file recovery is possible. If you’re currently using data backup services provided by an MSP and there are no other recovery options, contact us today to learn how our daily automated backups can prevent data loss in the future.

Recovering Deleted Files on Mac

Method 1: Restore from Trash

1. Open Trash: Click the Trash icon in the Dock.
2. Find the File: Browse or use the search bar to locate the deleted file.
3. Put Back: Right-click the file and select Put Back to restore it to its original location.

Method 2: Use Time Machine

1. Open Time Machine: Click the Time Machine icon in the menu bar or open it from System Preferences.
2. Find the Backup: Navigate through the backups to the date and time before the file was deleted.
3. Restore: If you find the file, select it and click Restore to recover it.

Method 3: Third-Party Recovery Software

Similar to Windows, Mac users can also benefit from third-party recovery tools like Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard for Mac, and Data Rescue.

1. Download and Install: Choose and install reliable data recovery software.
2. Scan for Deleted Files: Launch the software and select the drive where the file was deleted. Start the scan.
3. Preview and Recover: Preview the results and select the files you wish to recover. Follow the instructions to restore them.

Method 4: Check with Your Managed IT Services Provider

If a managed IT services provider (MSP) such as Design2Web IT maintains backups of your business data, they may have copies of the deleted files. Get in contact with your MSP to see if file recovery is possible. If you’re currently using data backup services provided by an MSP and there are no other recovery options, contact us today to learn how our daily automated backups can prevent data loss in the future.

Preventing Future Data Loss

To minimize the risk of data loss, consider the following preventative measures:

1. Regular Backups: Use built-in tools like File History (Windows) or Time Machine (Mac) to create regular backups.
2. Cloud Storage: Store important files on cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox for additional redundancy.
3. Use Reliable Antivirus Software: Protect your system from malware and viruses that can cause data loss.
4. Be Cautious with Deletions: Double-check before deleting files, especially when using commands like Shift + Delete (Windows) that bypass the Recycle Bin.
5. Use the Backup Services Provided by an MSP: Business data backup is just one of the essential services an MSP like Design2Web IT can provide for your organization. Contact us now to learn how our IT solutions can keep your business operating smoothly.

Secure Your Data Today

Recovering deleted files can often be a straightforward process if you act quickly and follow the appropriate steps. By utilizing built-in tools, third-party software, and preventative measures, you can protect your valuable data and minimize the impact of accidental deletions. If you encounter difficulties or need expert assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to help in your data recovery attempt. Our data backup solutions can also prevent this scary incident from happening in the future.