How Do I Recover Deleted Files?

Have you ever shouted: I accidentally deleted a file? If so, you’re not the first or last person to do so. Many of us unintentionally delete files we don’t mean to, leading to a panicky moment. However, when this happens, don’t let yourself be swept away by the panic, as there are file recovery methods you can use to reverse your mistake. 

In this article, the team at My Computer Works discusses how to recover deleted files. We also detail the importance of data backup and the differences between soft and hard deletes. Armed with this information, you will better understand how to address your accidental file deletion problems.                                         

What Happens When You Delete a File?

When a file is erased, it does not immediately disappear from your computer. In other words, when a file is deleted, its metadata is removed from the directory and marked as deleted, while the actual file stays on your hard drive or SSD until other data overwrites it. Only when your operating system trash or recycle bin is emptied, or the drive is formatted does a deleted file become genuinely unrecoverable. 

Soft Delete vs. Hard Delete: Understanding the Difference

When managing your data, it’s essential to understand the main differences between soft delete and hard delete, especially when you need to undertake a file recovery. Below is a brief breakdown to help you learn the difference: 

• Soft Delete: A soft delete is a technique where, instead of deleting a record from a database, you mark the data as “deleted” by setting a flag or status. That means data will remain in the system but will be considered inactive and often hidden from the user’s view. The good thing with this type of deletion is that it usually allows reversibility; meaning one can recover such deleted files quite easily, provided they are not thoroughly removed or overwritten.
• Hard Delete: Hard delete is the conventional method of deletion where the data is entirely removed from a system or database. Once a record is hard-deleted, it cannot be recovered without backups in place. This method is more final and could often be applied to situations when one wants to ensure that the data can no longer be accessed.

Immediate Action to Take When You Realize a File Is Deleted

Ctrl + Z is the savior when you accidentally delete anything. This keyboard shortcut is also your best friend if you want to undo the last action you performed on the computer. 

Essentially, Ctrl + Z acts like a magical key combination to undo a file deletion. It is the first and easiest method for restoring deleted files, whatever the reason. However, it only works to undo your last action. So, if you have deleted multiple files separately, it won’t restore them all. 

How to Restore Files from the Recycle Bin (Windows) and Trash (Mac): A Step-by-Step Guide

If the Ctrl + Z trick doesn’t work or you miss your window to “undo” whatever you did, there’s no need to be alarmed or upset because the file likely hasn’t been lost forever. 

The file is probably in your system’s Windows Recycle Bin or Trash for Mac users. Here is how to restore files that have found themselves in the Recycle Bin or Trash:

For Windows

1. Open Recycle Bin by double-clicking the icon on the desktop.
2. Look for the file you want to recover.
3. Right-click the file and select Restore.
4. The file will be restored to its original location.

For Mac 

1. Click the Trash icon in the dock.
2. Locate the file you want to recover.
3. Right-click on a file and select Put Back. It puts the file back where it was before deletion. 

These two methods on each type of device will only work for files that were recently deleted and not yet permanently removed by the system.

Restoring Files from Backups: Using Windows File History Or Time Machine

If you can’t find the file in the Recycle Bin or Trash, your next step is to see whether you have a backup. Both Windows and macOS have built-in backup utilities that periodically save file versions.

Windows File History: In the search bar, type ‘File History’ and select ‘Restore your files with File History’. Browse the available backups and select which file you want to restore. Click on the ‘Restore’ option to return it to its original location.

Time Machine, Mac: Open ‘Time Machine’ using the icon in the menu bar. Scroll the timeline back to when the file was still intact. When you find an undamaged version of the file, you can click ‘Restore’ to recover it.

Preventing Future Data Loss: Setting Up Backups for Peace of Mind

What to avoid feeling out of your depth when accidentally deleting files? The most effective way to render panic null and void is to have an appropriate backup plan. Here’s how you can safeguard your data moving forward:

1. Activate Windows file history or Time Machine: These features of your operating system automatically backs up your files regularly.
2. Cloud storage: These services, provided by Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Dropbox, among others, allow for real-time syncing of important files. If one deletes a file on the local device, it is safe in the cloud.
3. Backup files on an external hard disk drive: To keep your important files safe, you should consider saving them to an external hard disk drive or device. 
4. Automated scheduling of backups: Most backup solutions can be automated, so you won’t have to remember to do it.

Recovering Deleted Files from Cloud Services: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, and More

If you are using a cloud storage service, most of the time, when you delete a file, it goes to the trash or recycle bin for a certain amount of time before being deleted forever. Here’s how you can recover them from some popular services:

Google Drive:

1. Open Google Drive and open the Trash folder from the left menu.
2. Find your file to recover.
3. Right-click and select Restore to put it back in its place.

OneDrive:

1. Open OneDrive and click on the Recycle bin in the sidebar.
2. Identify which files are to be restored.
3. Click Restore at the top of the page.

Dropbox:

1. Log in to Dropbox, then click on Deleted files in the left sidebar.
2. Find your file, and select Restore.

It’s important to remember that most cloud services keep deleted files for at least 30 days, giving you quite a big window to recover your lost data.

When to Consider Professional Help: Recovering Failed Hard Drives or Corrupted Data

If you’ve tried all the methods above and still can’t recover your file, professional help might be necessary, especially if your hard drive has failed or your data is corrupted. Data recovery specialists like My Computer Wors use advanced tools to retrieve files from severely damaged drives. While it can be costly, it’s worth the price if the lost files are important to you.

The Wrap-Up On Recovering Deleted Files

Accidentally deleting a file doesn’t have to be a disaster. Whether recovering files from the Recycle Bin, using a backup, or restoring from the cloud, there are many ways to get your data back. For expert assistance with file recovery or data backups, contact My Computer Works today. We have years of experience helping individuals recover deleted files and backup their data safely.