I Accidentally Deleted Some Files from My Computer - Can I Get Them Back?
Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team
1. Introduction: Recover Deleted Files
If you ever lose files on your computer, it can be a very frustrating or even heartbreaking experience. While lost work can sometimes be re-done, missing photos and videos can be lost forever. Thankfully, there are numerous ways to protect those precious memories and save you from potentially losing dozens of hours re-creating lost documents and other important files.
We have specialized guides for Windows and macOS to help you out in retrieving your files.
Accidentally deleting important files is a common mishap for both Mac and Windows users. Fortunately, there are several methods to recover these lost files. This guide will provide detailed steps on how to recover accidentally deleted files on Mac and Windows computers.
Recovering Deleted Files on a Mac
1. Check the Trash Bin
First Step: Files deleted on a Mac are usually moved to the Trash Bin. Click on the Trash Bin icon and search for your deleted files.
Restoration: If you find them, right-click on the file and select “Put Back†to restore it to its original location.
2. Use Time Machine Backup
Precondition: This method works only if you have set up Time Machine to back up your Mac.
Recovery Process: Connect your Time Machine backup drive, open the folder where the file was located, click on the Time Machine icon in the menu bar, and choose 'Enter Time Machine'.
Restore Files: Browse through the backups to find your file, then click “Restore†to recover it.
3. Use Data Recovery Software
Software Options: Tools like Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Stellar Data Recovery can be used.
Process: Install the software, run a scan on the drive where your files were stored, and follow the instructions to recover your files.
4. iCloud Recovery
For iCloud Users: If you use iCloud Drive, log in to iCloud.com, go to the iCloud Drive section, and check the 'Recently Deleted' folder.
Recovering Deleted Files on a Windows Computer
1. Check the Recycle Bin
Initial Step: Deleted files in Windows are moved to the Recycle Bin. Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking its icon.
Restoration: If your files are there, right-click on them and choose 'Restore' to move them back to their original location.
2. Use File History
Requirement: This method works if you have File History set up.
Process: Go to the folder where the files were located, right-click on it, and select 'Restore previous versions'. Choose the version of the folder that contains your files and click 'Restore'.
3. Use Data Recovery Software
Software Options: Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Stellar Data Recovery are popular choices.
Procedure: After installing the software, perform a scan of the affected drive and follow the prompts to recover your deleted files.
4. OneDrive Recovery
For OneDrive Users: If you have synced your files with OneDrive, log into the OneDrive website, and check the 'Recycle bin'.
General Tips for Successful Recovery
Act Quickly: The sooner you attempt to recover your files, the better your chances of success.
Avoid Overwriting: Refrain from saving new data to the drive where the deleted files were located to prevent overwriting them.
Preview Before Recovery: Many recovery tools offer a preview feature to help you identify the correct files before recovery.
Preventive Measures
Regular Backups: Regularly back up your data either using Time Machine on Mac or File History on Windows.
Cloud Storage: Consider using cloud services like iCloud or OneDrive for additional backup.
Caution with Deletion: Always double-check before deleting files or emptying the Trash Bin or Recycle Bin.
Conclusion
While accidentally deleting files can be alarming, there are effective ways to recover them on both Mac and Windows computers. From checking the Trash Bin or Recycle Bin to using professional data recovery software, these methods can be lifesavers. The key to successful file recovery is acting promptly and having a good backup system in place.
2. Computer: OS Choice
To continue, we need to know what Operating System your computer is using.
There are 2 main Operating Systems for personal computers currently available, Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS.
Microsoft WindowsApple macOSMicrosoft Windows runs on computers produced by multiple companies, such as Lenovo, Asus, Dell, Toshiba, Hewlett Packard, Acer, and Sony.Apple is the only company that makes macOS computers.
3. Go To: How Do I Recover Deleted Files for Windows?
The following guide will walk you through the steps to recover files on your Windows computer.
.png)
