How to recover recently deleted files in Windows 11
In today’s digital age, data loss can happen at any moment, and accidentally deleting important files can be a distressing experience. Whether it’s a crucial document, cherished photos, or important emails, the loss of these files can be devastating. However, with Windows 11, you can easily recover recently deleted files. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to retrieve your deleted files and ensure that your data is safe and sound.
1. Check the Recycle Bin
The first and simplest step to recover recently deleted files in Windows 11 is to check the Recycle Bin. When you delete a file, it is usually moved to the Recycle Bin, where it can be easily restored. To do this:
– Open the Recycle Bin by clicking on its icon on the desktop or searching for it in the Start menu.
– Look for the deleted file among the list of files and folders.
– Right-click on the file and select “Restore” to recover it to its original location.
2. Use File History
If you have enabled File History in Windows 11, you can use this feature to restore deleted files from previous versions. File History automatically creates copies of your files at regular intervals, allowing you to retrieve older versions of files. To use File History:
– Go to the Settings app by clicking on the Start button and selecting “Settings.”
– Click on “System” and then “Storage.”
– Under “Storage sense,” click on “Change how we free up space automatically.”
– Scroll down and select “Turn on File History.”
– Follow the on-screen instructions to set up File History.
– Once File History is enabled, go to the folder where the deleted file was located.
– Right-click on the folder and select “Restore previous versions” to view and recover the deleted file.
3. Utilize the “Previous Versions” feature
The “Previous Versions” feature in Windows 11 allows you to restore files from system restore points. This feature is particularly useful if you have deleted files and want to recover them from a specific point in time. To use “Previous Versions”:
– Right-click on the folder or file that was deleted and select “Restore previous versions.”
– A list of available restore points will be displayed. Select the desired restore point and click “Restore” to recover the file.
4. Use third-party data recovery software
If the above methods do not work, you can turn to third-party data recovery software to recover your deleted files in Windows 11. These tools are designed to scan your hard drive and recover deleted files, even if they have been removed from the Recycle Bin. Some popular data recovery software options include:
– Recuva
– EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
– Stellar Data Recovery
To use third-party data recovery software:
– Download and install the chosen data recovery software.
– Run the software and select the drive where the deleted files were located.
– Start the scanning process and wait for the software to complete.
– Once the scan is finished, browse through the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
– Choose a location to save the recovered files and click “Restore” to recover them.
In conclusion, recovering recently deleted files in Windows 11 is a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily retrieve your lost data and restore your peace of mind. Remember to act quickly, as deleted files may be overwritten by new data, making recovery more challenging.
