How to recover deleted files from hard drive is a common concern for many computer users. Whether it’s due to accidental deletion, system crash, or malware infection, losing important data can be a distressing experience. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can often retrieve your deleted files and restore them to their original location. In this article, we will discuss various methods to recover deleted files from a hard drive and provide you with step-by-step instructions to get your data back.
Before we dive into the recovery methods, it’s essential to understand that the sooner you act after the deletion, the higher the chances of successful recovery. When a file is deleted, it’s not immediately erased from the hard drive; instead, the space it occupied is marked as available for new data. As long as this space isn’t overwritten by new files, you can still recover the deleted files.
1. Use File Recovery Software
The most straightforward method to recover deleted files from a hard drive is by using file recovery software. There are many reliable tools available, such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. Here’s how to use Recuva as an example:
- Download and install Recuva from the official website.
- Run the software and select the file type you want to recover (e.g., documents, photos, videos, etc.).
- Choose the location where the files were deleted from (e.g., hard drive, USB flash drive, etc.).
- Click “Start” to begin the scanning process.
- Once the scan is complete, preview the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
- Specify a recovery location for the files and click “Recover” to save them.
2. Check the Recycle Bin
For Windows users, the Recycle Bin is a convenient place to recover deleted files. If you’ve deleted files recently, they might still be in the Recycle Bin:
- Open the Recycle Bin on your desktop.
- Locate the deleted files and right-click on them.
- Select “Restore” to move the files back to their original location.
3. Use System Restore
System Restore is a Windows feature that allows you to revert your computer’s system files, settings, and installed programs to a previous state. If you’ve created a restore point before the deletion, you can use it to recover your files:
- Press “Windows key + R” to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “sysdm.cpl” and press Enter to open System Properties.
- Go to the “System Restore” tab and click “Next.” Select a restore point before the deletion and click “Next.” Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
4. Contact a Professional Data Recovery Service
If the above methods fail to recover your deleted files, or if the files are extremely important, it may be best to contact a professional data recovery service. These experts have specialized tools and techniques to recover data from damaged or corrupted hard drives.
In conclusion, recovering deleted files from a hard drive is possible with the right approach. By using file recovery software, checking the Recycle Bin, utilizing System Restore, or seeking professional help, you can often retrieve your lost data and restore it to its original location. Remember to act quickly and avoid writing new files to the affected drive to maximize your chances of successful recovery.
