Top Five Deleted File Recovery Steps
We've all done it: accidentally deleted a crucial file. It's not a good feeling. In fact, when you're the one who hit the delete key, you want to kick yourself. Sometimes files get accidentally deleted without you ever realizing you did it. For example, you might have highlighted a series of files in a row for deletion and then accidentally included a file you didn't intend to include. You may not realize that you just deleted data. Recovery of deleted files is possible though so you're not out of luck just yet. Here are the top five deleted file recovery steps that you can take in an attempt to get your deleted file back.
- Restore from the Recycle Bin. That little trash can on your desktop serves a purpose. Not only is this where your deleted files go, you can go dumpster diving and get them back! Deleted data recovery from the Recycle Bin is easy. Simply double-click the icon and a window will open listing all of the deleted files available for restoration. Scroll through until you find the deleted file in question and right-click it. Chose Restore from the submenu and your file will be restored to its original location.
- Restore from a recent backup. This option is only good if you have a recent backup. If so, insert the most current backup you have into your computer's backup device. For example, if you use a tape backup, find the most current tape and insert it into the computer's tape drive. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and restore your file.
- Check your e-mail sent box. This deleted file recovery step will only work if you have previously e-mailed the file in question to someone. If so, you may be able to access the temporary file that Windows made when you sent the original. Simply search your sent box, find the e-mail that you had previously attached the file to. Open the file and click the attachment. If you haven't deleted your temporary files, you should be able to open this copy.
- Get professional help. What if you emptied the Recycle Bin, don't have a current backup, and never sent your file to anyone via e-mail? Deleted file recovery is still possible though you will need help. Many computer repair shops specialize in deleted data recovery. You can take your computer in and let them recover your file for a fee.
- Use deleted data recovery software. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you can recover your deleted file on your own by using a deleted file recovery utility. You'll pay less for the software than you will for a one-time recovery at the local computer shop. These deleted data recovery software utilities work because of the way Windows handles deleted files. The file isn't actually deleted rather the reference to the file is deleted. Even if you can't see the file, the deleted file recovery software can!
You can recover from deletions but you must act quickly because once deleted, files can be overwritten.
