How to recover deleted items in file explorer
Losing important files or documents can be a distressing experience, especially when they are deleted accidentally. Whether it’s a crucial project, personal photos, or important documents, the thought of losing them can be overwhelming. However, there are ways to recover deleted items in file explorer, and in this article, we will discuss some effective methods to help you restore your lost data.
1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash
The first and simplest step to recover deleted items in file explorer is to check the Recycle Bin (on Windows) or Trash (on macOS). When you delete a file, it is usually moved to these folders instead of being permanently deleted. To recover a file from the Recycle Bin or Trash, follow these steps:
– On Windows: Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking on its icon on the desktop. Find the deleted file, right-click on it, and select “Restore.” The file will be returned to its original location.
– On macOS: Open the Trash by clicking on its icon in the dock. Locate the deleted file, right-click on it, and select “Put Back.” The file will be restored to its original folder.
2. Use File Recovery Software
If the deleted items are not found in the Recycle Bin or Trash, you can use file recovery software to restore them. There are several reliable third-party applications available that can scan your hard drive and recover deleted files. Some popular options include:
– Recuva: A free file recovery tool that can recover deleted files from various storage devices, including hard drives, USB flash drives, and memory cards.
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: A user-friendly tool that can recover deleted files, even if they have been emptied from the Recycle Bin or Trash.
– Stellar Data Recovery: A powerful tool that can recover deleted files from various storage devices, including SSDs, HDDs, and USB flash drives.
To use file recovery software, follow these steps:
1. Download and install the chosen file recovery software on your computer.
2. Run the software and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process, which may take some time depending on the size of the drive.
4. Once the scan is complete, browse through the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and start the recovery process.
3. Use System Restore
If you have enabled System Restore on your computer, you can use it to restore your system to a previous point in time when the deleted files were still present. This method is particularly useful if the deleted files were lost due to system crashes or software updates. To use System Restore, follow these steps:
– On Windows: Press the Windows key + R, type “sysdm.cpl” in the Run dialog box, and press Enter. In the System Properties window, go to the System Restore tab, click “System Restore,” and follow the on-screen instructions.
– On macOS: Unfortunately, macOS does not have a built-in System Restore feature. However, you can create a Time Machine backup to restore your system to a previous state.
4. Contact a Professional Data Recovery Service
If all else fails, you may need to contact a professional data recovery service. These services have specialized tools and expertise to recover deleted items from various storage devices, even in cases where the data has been overwritten or the drive is physically damaged. However, this option can be expensive and may not always guarantee a successful recovery.
In conclusion, recovering deleted items in file explorer is possible using various methods, such as checking the Recycle Bin or Trash, using file recovery software, utilizing System Restore, or seeking professional help. It is crucial to act quickly and follow the appropriate steps to increase your chances of successfully restoring your lost data.
