Where can I find recently deleted files on Windows?
In the digital age, we often find ourselves accidentally deleting important files on our Windows computers. The good news is that Windows provides several ways to recover these deleted files. Whether you’re using Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11, here’s a guide on where to find recently deleted files on your Windows system.
Using the Recycle Bin
The first place to look for recently deleted files on Windows is the Recycle Bin. When you delete a file, it’s typically moved to the Recycle Bin instead of being permanently deleted. To access the Recycle Bin:
1. Click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
2. Open the Recycle Bin to view the deleted files.
3. To restore a file, right-click on it and select “Restore.”
4. To permanently delete a file, right-click on it and select “Delete.”
Checking the Recycle Bin Properties
If you’re unable to find the deleted files in the Recycle Bin, it’s possible that they have been emptied. In this case, you can check the Recycle Bin properties to see if any files are still available for recovery:
1. Right-click on the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop and select “Properties.”
2. In the “Recycle Bin Properties” window, click on the “Custom size” radio button.
3. Enter a larger size for the Recycle Bin in the “Custom size” field and click “OK.”
4. Delete a new file to increase the size of the Recycle Bin.
5. Return to the Recycle Bin and search for the deleted files.
Using File History
Windows 10 and later versions include a feature called File History, which automatically backs up your files to an external drive or network location. If you’ve enabled File History, you can recover deleted files from previous versions:
1. Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Backup.”
2. Click on “More options” and then “Restore files with File History.”
3. Use the search bar or browse through the folders to find the deleted files.
4. Select the files you want to restore and click “Restore.”
Using a File Recovery Tool
If the above methods don’t work, you can use a third-party file recovery tool to help you find recently deleted files on Windows. These tools scan your hard drive for deleted files and attempt to recover them. Some popular file recovery tools include:
– Recuva
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
– MiniTool Power Data Recovery
When using a file recovery tool, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and select the appropriate recovery mode. Keep in mind that the chances of successful recovery decrease as time passes since the files were deleted.
In conclusion, finding recently deleted files on Windows can be a straightforward process, provided you act quickly. By utilizing the Recycle Bin, File History, and file recovery tools, you can often retrieve your lost files and prevent data loss.
