Recovering Deleted Data from a Windows PC
From personal files and documents to media files like photos & videos, we store a lot of data on our computers. We also delete many unnecessary files from our computer to make storage space for the new ones.
File deletion is a process where you simply press the delete button to remove unnecessary files and data. However, sometimes, during the process, we mistakenly delete important files. Generally, when we delete a file, it goes into the Recycle Bin.
But sometimes, if a file is deleted using the SHIFT + DELETE key combination or the Recycle Bin is emptied, we permanently lose that file. This can be tricky if you accidentally delete an important fie while emptying the Recycle Bin.
The situation might seem bleak, but not all is lost. Temporary or permanently deleted files, all can be recovered under most circumstances. This post will look at ways to recover deleted data and files on a Windows PC.
How do Files get deleted from My Windows PC?
Just like copy-pasting files, file deletion is another rudimentary process that we carry out every now & then. However, accidentally deleting data from a Windows PC using the SHIFT + DELETE keystroke or emptying the Recycle Bin is still the primary cause of data loss. Additionally, unexpected system crashes, data corruption, malware attacks, etc., could also result in file loss.
Listed below are some reasons behind file deletion –
- Accidental deletion
- Malware attack
- File/data corruption
- Emptying Recycle Bin
- Logged into temporary account
- Formatting of the drive
Is it Possible to Recover DELETED data?
Yes, there are high chances of recovering deleted data from your Windows PC, provided the storage media from where it was deleted was not used afterward and the original data has not been overwritten by the new data.
Methods to Recover Permanently Deleted on a Windows PC?
Accidentally deleting important files could panic anyone. But, if we have maintained regular data backups, that could provide immediate assistance in restoring such files. Let’s look at some ways to recover deleted data and files on a Windows PC.
Method 1: Recover Deleted Files from the Recycle Bin
Recycle Bin is the first location to check while recovering lost or deleted data. Usually, when you hit the delete button, the files are moved to Recycle Bin and remain there for 30 days until you empty the Recycle Bin. After 30 days, the computer automatically deletes its contents.
But, if you have deleted files using the Shift + Delete key combination, the file recovery process will become a bit complex. In any case of file deletion, you should immediately stop using the source drive.
Method 2: Sign Out from Temporary User Profile
Sometimes, Windows logs you into a temporary user account after you install an update. This temporary account doesn’t contain data and files from your primary user account, which could make it seem as if your files have been deleted after updating Windows. Simply log out of the temporary user account and log into your main account to get your files back.
Method 3: Enable the Old Administrator Account
Some Windows 11 users encountered an instance where their data and files were gone, making it seem like they were deleted after updating from Windows 10 to Windows 11. This happens due to Windows 11’s unusual requirement of asking users to log in using a Microsoft account.
If you have made a new Microsoft user account to log into your Windows 11 PC, chances are that your files could be located in the disabled administrator account, which was your previous user account. Simply go to Computer Management and enable the old administrator account from the Local Users and Groups.
Method 4: Recover Deleted Files from Email Attachments
If you use your email to send and receive important files, check your mailbox to find and recover deleted data and files. Emails are also used to back up important data and files. If you have accidentally deleted some important documents, don’t forget to check your mailbox, as you might find them there.
Method 5: Use Cloud/Local Backup
If you have created and maintained regular backups of your files on the cloud or locally on an external storage media like HDD or SSD, use them to recover deleted files.
Method 6: Use File History to Restore Folder
If you have enabled the File History feature on your Windows PC, you can restore the folder to its previous state from where you accidentally deleted files.
Method 7: Expert Data Recovery Solution
The above-mentioned methods should help you recover deleted data and files in no time. However, if you want to skip these strenuous DIY methods, use a professional data recovery software for this job. A professional data recovery tool helps recover missing or deleted files from numerous storage devices like HDD, SSD, Thumb drives, and more. Additionally, a professional file recovery tool is powerful enough to handle data recovery from unbootable or crashed Windows PCs.
Tips to Avoid Unprecedented Data Loss
We are pretty sure that the methods explained above will help you recover deleted files from a Windows PC. However, we have compiled a list of ways to avoid unprecedented data loss –
- Use the 3-2-1 data backup strategy to take regular Backups of your data.
- Enable File History feature while configuring/installing Windows.
- Always keep your antivirus updated to keep malware at bay.
- Diversify backup using multiple locations to create data copies.
- Keep a reliable data recovery software handy as a contingency plan.
- Avoid saving files on the Desktop.
- Stop using the drive right away in case of accidental deletion.
