How to recover files that are permanently deleted can be a daunting task for many users, especially when they realize that their important data has been lost. However, with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to retrieve deleted files and restore them to their original state. In this article, we will explore various methods and software options to help you recover permanently deleted files from your computer, external drives, or even cloud storage.
When files are deleted from a computer, they are often moved to the Recycle Bin or Trash folder, where they can be easily restored. However, if you have emptied the Recycle Bin or Trash folder, or if the files were deleted using the “Shift + Delete” key combination, they are considered permanently deleted. In such cases, the deleted files are no longer visible in the file system, but their data may still be recoverable.
One of the most effective ways to recover permanently deleted files is by using file recovery software. These programs scan your storage devices for deleted files and attempt to recover them. Here are some popular file recovery software options:
- Recuva: A free file recovery program that supports various file formats and can recover files from hard drives, USB flash drives, and memory cards.
- EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard: A user-friendly tool that offers a high success rate in recovering deleted files from various storage devices.
- Stellar Data Recovery: A comprehensive program that supports a wide range of file formats and offers advanced recovery options for complex data loss scenarios.
When using file recovery software, follow these steps to increase your chances of successful recovery:
- Stop using the storage device immediately after realizing that files are deleted. This will prevent overwriting the deleted files with new data.
- Download and install a file recovery program from a reputable source.
- Launch the program and select the storage device where the deleted files were located.
- Start the scanning process and wait for the program to identify deleted files.
- Select the files you want to recover and choose a location to save them.
- Wait for the recovery process to complete and verify that the files have been successfully restored.
In addition to using file recovery software, there are other methods to recover permanently deleted files:
- Check for backups: If you have a backup of your files, you can restore them from the backup.
- Utilize system restore points: Windows and macOS offer system restore points that can help you revert your computer to a previous state, potentially recovering deleted files.
- Consult a professional: If all else fails, you may need to seek the help of a professional data recovery service.
Remember that the success rate of recovering permanently deleted files depends on various factors, such as the time elapsed since the deletion, the storage device’s condition, and the complexity of the data loss scenario. By following the tips and methods outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of recovering your valuable data.
