How to Access Deleted Files on Windows
Losing important files on your Windows computer can be a distressing experience. Whether it’s due to accidental deletion, system crashes, or malware infections, the loss of valuable data can seem irreversible. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can often recover deleted files on Windows. In this article, we will guide you through the process of accessing deleted files on Windows and provide you with some effective methods to restore your lost data.
1. Use the Recycle Bin
The Recycle Bin is a built-in feature of Windows that temporarily stores deleted files. To access deleted files using the Recycle Bin, follow these steps:
1. Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Scroll through the list of deleted files and locate the ones you want to restore.
3. Right-click on the file and select “Restore” to return it to its original location.
If you have emptied the Recycle Bin or the deleted files are not present there, proceed to the next method.
2. Utilize File History
Windows 10 and later versions come with a built-in feature called File History, which automatically backs up your files to an external drive or network location. To access deleted files using File History, follow these steps:
1. Open the File History settings by searching for “File History” in the Start menu.
2. Select the “Restore personal files” option.
3. Navigate to the folder where your deleted files were stored.
4. Click on the “Restore” button next to the file you want to recover.
If File History is not enabled or you don’t have a backup, try the next method.
3. Use File Recovery Software
There are numerous third-party file recovery tools available for Windows that can help you recover deleted files. Some popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. Here’s how to use Recuva as an example:
1. Download and install Recuva from the official website.
2. Run the program and select the file type you want to recover (e.g., photos, documents, etc.).
3. Choose the location where the deleted files were stored and click “Start.”
4. Review the scan results and select the files you want to recover.
5. Specify a recovery location for the restored files and click “Recover.”
4. Check for System Restore Points
System Restore is a Windows feature that allows you to revert your computer to a previous state, including the files and settings. To access deleted files using System Restore, follow these steps:
1. Type “Create a restore point” in the Start menu and select the corresponding result.
2. In the System Properties window, click on the “System Restore” button.
3. Choose a restore point from before the deletion occurred and click “Next.”
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.
5. Contact a Professional Data Recovery Service
If none of the above methods work, or if the deleted files are extremely important, it may be worth contacting a professional data recovery service. These experts have specialized tools and techniques to recover lost data from various storage devices, including hard drives, SSDs, and memory cards.
In conclusion, accessing deleted files on Windows can be achieved through various methods, including the Recycle Bin, File History, file recovery software, System Restore, and professional data recovery services. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of successfully restoring your lost data.
