How to see recently deleted files on Windows
In the digital age, data loss can be a significant inconvenience. Whether it’s an accidental deletion or a system crash, losing important files can be distressing. One common scenario is when you delete files and later realize that you need them back. Windows operating system provides a way to recover recently deleted files, which can be a lifesaver in such situations. In this article, we will discuss how to see recently deleted files on Windows and the steps to retrieve them.
Using the Recycle Bin
The Recycle Bin is a default feature in Windows that temporarily stores deleted files. To access the Recycle Bin and see recently deleted files, follow these steps:
1. On your desktop, double-click the Recycle Bin icon.
2. The Recycle Bin window will open, displaying all the deleted files.
3. Scroll through the list of files to find the one you want to recover.
4. Right-click on the file and select “Restore” to move it back to its original location.
Using File History
File History is a feature in Windows that automatically backs up your files to an external drive or network location. If you have enabled File History, you can recover deleted files from previous versions. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open the File Explorer by clicking the folder icon on the taskbar or pressing the Windows key + E.
2. In the left pane, click on “This PC” or “Computer.”
3. Navigate to the drive where File History is configured (usually an external drive or network location).
4. Look for a folder named “History” or “File History” and open it.
5. Browse through the folders and files to find the deleted item.
6. Right-click on the file and select “Restore” to bring it back to its original location.
Using a Third-Party File Recovery Tool
If the Recycle Bin and File History don’t work for you, you can try using a third-party file recovery tool. These tools are designed to scan your hard drive and recover deleted files that are not in the Recycle Bin or File History. Here’s a general guide on how to use a file recovery tool:
1. Download and install a reputable file recovery tool from a trusted source.
2. Open the program and select the drive where your deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process, which may take some time depending on the size of your drive.
4. Once the scan is complete, review the list of deleted files and select the ones you want to recover.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and click “Restore” to recover them.
Preventive Measures
To avoid losing important files in the future, it’s essential to take preventive measures. Here are some tips:
1. Regularly back up your files to an external drive or cloud storage.
2. Use the “Undo Delete” feature in Windows to cancel a recent deletion.
3. Be cautious when deleting files and double-check before confirming the action.
In conclusion, seeing recently deleted files on Windows is possible through various methods, including the Recycle Bin, File History, and third-party file recovery tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can recover your deleted files and prevent future data loss.
