Recovering Deleted Files on Windows 10/11

Recovering Deleted Files on Windows 10/11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Accidentally deleting important files or documents can be a heart-stopping moment, but do not panic just yet. Windows 10 and 11 offer several built-in that can help you recover those lost files, provided you act quickly. In this post, we will guide you through the process of retrieving accidentally deleted files on your Windows 10 or 11 computer.

Step 1: Stop Using Your Computer Immediately

The first and most crucial step is to stop using your computer when you realize you have deleted something important. Every time you save a new file or make changes to existing ones, you risk overwriting the deleted data, making it harder or even impossible to recover.

Step 2: Check the Recycle Bin

Before attempting any advanced recovery methods, it is always a good idea to check the Recycle Bin. If you have recently deleted the file(s), they may still be residing in the Recycle Bin, making the recovery process a breeze.

• Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking on its desktop icon or searching for it in the Start menu.
• Look for the deleted file(s) in the Recycle Bin window.
• If you find the file(s), right-click on them and select "Restore" to move them back to their original location.

Step 3: Use the File History Feature (Windows 10/11)

If the Recycle Bin does not have your deleted files, the next step is to check if you have enabled the File History feature in Windows 10 or 11. This feature automatically backs up your files, making it easier to recover them if they are accidentally deleted.

• Open the Control Panel and navigate to "File History."
• Click on "Restore personal files" and follow the on-screen instructions to browse and restore the deleted file(s).

Step 4: Seek Professional Help

If all else fails and you are not able to recover your deleted files using the methods mentioned above, it may be time to seek professional help. Data recovery experts, like LFC Support, have access to advanced tools and techniques that can potentially retrieve even the most stubborn deleted files. However, keep in mind there is no guarantee of success.

Prevention is Better Than the Cure

While the steps outlined above can help you recover accidentally deleted files, it is always better to take preventive measures to avoid data loss in the first place. Here are some tips to help you prevent accidental file deletion:

• Enable the File History feature in Windows 10/11 and regularly back up your important files.
• Use cloud storage services to keep your files backed up online. Ask LFC Support about this.
• Be cautious when deleting files and double-check before hitting the "Delete" button.
• Consider using a dedicated backup solution, such as an external hard drive or a network-attached storage (NAS) device, to create regular backups of your data.

By following these preventive measures and acting quickly when files are accidentally deleted, you can minimize the risk of permanent data loss and ensure the safety of your important files and documents.