How to Get Deleted Files from Dropbox
Losing important files can be a distressing experience, especially when they are stored on cloud storage platforms like Dropbox. Whether you accidentally deleted a file or emptied the trash, it’s natural to feel concerned about the loss. In this article, we will discuss various methods on how to get deleted files from Dropbox and ensure that your valuable data is recoverable.
1. Check the Dropbox Trash
The first step in retrieving deleted files from Dropbox is to check the trash folder. When you delete a file, it is moved to the trash, where it remains for a certain period before being permanently deleted. Here’s how to access and restore files from the trash:
1. Log in to your Dropbox account on the web.
2. Click on the “…” button next to the trash icon on the left sidebar.
3. Select “Trash” from the dropdown menu.
4. You will see a list of deleted files. Scroll through the list and find the file you want to recover.
5. Click on the file and select “Restore” to move it back to its original location.
2. Use Dropbox’s Deleted Files Recovery
If the deleted file is not in the trash or you have already emptied it, Dropbox offers a deleted files recovery feature. This feature allows you to recover files that were deleted more than 30 days ago. Here’s how to use it:
1. Go to the Dropbox website and log in to your account.
2. Click on the “…” button next to the trash icon on the left sidebar.
3. Select “Deleted files” from the dropdown menu.
4. You will see a list of deleted files older than 30 days. Scroll through the list and find the file you want to recover.
5. Click on the file and select “Restore” to move it back to its original location.
3. Restore Previous Versions of Files
Dropbox keeps previous versions of files for a limited time. If you have deleted a file and want to restore an earlier version, follow these steps:
1. Go to the Dropbox website and log in to your account.
2. Navigate to the folder where the file was located.
3. Right-click on the file and select “Previous versions.”
4. You will see a list of available versions. Select the version you want to restore.
5. Click on “Restore” to replace the current file with the selected version.
4. Use Third-Party File Recovery Tools
If the above methods do not work, you can try using third-party file recovery tools. These tools are designed to recover deleted files from various storage devices, including Dropbox. However, be cautious when choosing a recovery tool, as some may not be reliable or could compromise your data security. Here are a few steps to follow:
1. Research and select a reputable file recovery tool.
2. Download and install the tool on your computer.
3. Connect your Dropbox account to the recovery tool.
4. Scan your Dropbox account for deleted files.
5. Select the files you want to recover and follow the instructions provided by the tool.
5. Contact Dropbox Support
If none of the above methods work, it’s advisable to contact Dropbox support for assistance. The support team can help you recover deleted files in situations where the data is critical or if there’s an issue with the Dropbox service itself. Here’s how to contact Dropbox support:
1. Go to the Dropbox website and log in to your account.
2. Click on your profile picture in the top-right corner and select “Help.”
3. Choose “Contact Support” from the dropdown menu.
4. Fill out the form with your contact information and a detailed description of the issue.
5. Submit the form, and a Dropbox representative will get back to you as soon as possible.
In conclusion, losing files from Dropbox can be a frustrating experience, but there are several methods to get deleted files back. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can recover your valuable data and ensure that your Dropbox account remains secure.
