Accidentally deleting important files can be a stressful experience. Fortunately, both Windows and Mac systems offer several ways to recover lost data. In this article, we’ll explore eight methods to restore deleted files on Windows and Mac, ensuring you can retrieve your precious data.
1. Check the Recycle Bin/Trash
Your first stop for recovering deleted files should be the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac). Often, deleted files are not permanently removed but moved to these locations.
- Windows: Open the Recycle Bin from your desktop and look for the deleted file. Right-click on it and select ‘Restore’ to return it to its original location.
- Mac: Open the Trash from the Dock, find the file, right-click, and select ‘Put Back’ to restore it.
2. Use File History (Windows) / Time Machine (Mac)
Both Windows and Mac have built-in backup tools that can help you restore deleted files.
- Windows: Open ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ > ‘Backup’ and select ‘More options’. Choose ‘Restore files from a current backup’.
- Mac: Open Time Machine from the menu bar or System Preferences, navigate to the folder where the file was located, and use the timeline to find and restore the file.
3. Restore Previous Versions (Windows)
Windows allows you to restore files to a previous version using File Explorer.
Right-click on the folder where the file was located, select ‘Restore previous versions’, choose the appropriate version, and click ‘Restore’.
4. Use Third-Party Software
If built-in tools fail, consider using third-party recovery software.
- Recuva (Windows): A free tool that can recover files from hard drives, external drives, and recycle bin.
- Disk Drill (Mac): A effective recovery tool that supports various file types and storage devices.
5. Check Cloud Storage
If you use cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or iCloud, check their respective trash or deleted files section from their web interface to restore lost files.
6. Use Command Prompt (Windows)
Advanced users can use the Command Prompt to restore files.
Open Command Prompt as an administrator, type chkdsk X: /f (replace ‘X’ with the drive letter), and press Enter. Type ATTRIB -H -R -S /S /D X:*.* and press Enter to recover hidden files.
7. Retrieve Files from a Backup
If you have previously created system backups using third-party or built-in tools, restoring from them can be an effective solution.
- Windows: Use ‘Backup and Restore’ from the Control Panel.
- Mac: Use ‘Restore from Time Machine Backup’ during a macOS reinstallation.
8. Use Data Recovery Services
For critical files that you can’t retrieve using software solutions, consider using professional data recovery services.
These services can be costly, but they offer the highest chances of retrieving important data.
Statistical Data on File Recovery Success Rate
| Method | Success Rate |
|---|---|
| Recycle Bin/Trash | 90% |
| File History/Time Machine | 80% |
| Previous Versions | 75% |
| Third-Party Software | 70% |
| Cloud Storage | 85% |
| Command Prompt | 60% |
| Backup | 90% |
| Data Recovery Services | 95% |
Hopefully, one of these methods will help you recover your lost files. Remember to regularly back up your data to prevent future data loss.
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