How to Check, Restore Deleted Files on Computer

Accidently permanently deleting a file can be a nightmare. Whether it’s an accidental delete or a file you deleted which you may have now need, it isn’t an easy task. Luckily, most systems today have temporary storing of these temporary, deleted files

Check Trash Folder

Many systems include built-in temporary deleted files storage for system protection.

Windows

On Windows, you can find the trash folder on the desktop folder named “Recycle Bin.” If you find your file, you can drag it to your desired folder, or right-click then Restore. It returns to the location it was originally deleted from

Mac

On Apple Mac computers, you can usually find the trash can icon in your taskbar or Finder. You can drag it out to your desired folder, or right-click then click “Put back” so it’s returned to its original location.

These files may be cleared automatically after an amount of time by the system, or with cleaning tools like Windows’ built-in Disk Cleaner utility. If you accidently clear the trash can folder or the important file is deleted and gone, it may be recoverable.

Most systems including Windows and Macs keeps many copies of a single file for different reasons, including easier access, or caching (for example, a small icon of a full-size image to be shown in File Explorer).

Third-Party Tools

There are many third-party software tools that deeply scan and find possibly deleted files. One tool for Windows is Recuva.

Recuva is a freemium program (free with an option of a subscription) for Windows by Piriform, creators of popular cleaning app CCleaner. Recuva’s easy-to-use interface and scanning ability deep checks your systems for lost or deleted files.

And it’s pretty straightforward. You install, configure desired options such as deep checking, scan, and see results when done. Try or learn more about Recuva on their website.

Another tool compatible with both Windows and Apple’s Mac PCs is PhotoScan. PhotoScan is a free digital picture and file recovery software offering scanning and attempt restoration of files. Learn more on their website here.