How to Restore Permanently Deleted Files: 5 Easy Methods
We’ve all been there — you hit “Shift + Delete” or empty your Recycle Bin without thinking, and suddenly, important files are gone. That sinking feeling is awful, but here’s the good news: even if your files are “permanently deleted,” there’s still hope! In this fast guide, you’ll learn how to restore permanently deleted files using five easy (and mostly free) methods. Whether you’re a tech newbie or just in a panic, follow these steps and you might just save your precious data today!
What Does “Permanently Deleted” Actually Mean?
Before we dive in, let’s quickly explain what “permanently deleted” means:
- You Shift + Deleted a file (bypassing the Recycle Bin).
- You emptied your Recycle Bin manually.
- Files were deleted by a system crash or virus and aren’t in the Bin.
Important: Even if you can’t see the file anymore, it’s often still hiding on your disk — you just need the right methods to bring it back.
Method 1: Restore From File History (If Enabled)
If you had File History set up, recovery is a breeze!
Steps:
- Search for “File History” in the Windows search bar.
- Open it and select “Restore personal files.”
- Browse for your missing file and click Restore.
✅ Tip: Always keep File History turned on for future protection!
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Method 2: Restore From Previous Versions
Windows automatically saves some file versions if you have Restore Points enabled.
Steps:
- Right-click the folder that contained the deleted file.
- Click Properties > Previous Versions.
- Choose an earlier version and click Restore.
✅ Reminder: This only works if System Protection was on!
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Method 3: Use Free Data Recovery Software (WinfrGUI Experience)
One tool I personally used is WinfrGUI — a free, beginner-friendly program that simplifies how to recover permanently deleted files from PC, especially on Windows 10 and 11.
🖥️ My Experience:
“After losing an important project draft by accident, I tried WinfrGUI. In just under 10 minutes, it scanned my drive, found the deleted files, and restored them — no complicated setup or tech knowledge needed. Highly recommend it for beginners!”
Basic Steps to Use WinfrGUI:
- Download and install WinfrGUI.
- Choose the drive where the files were deleted.
- Select a recovery mode (Quick or Deep Scan).
- Preview and recover your files!
| Scan Type | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Scan | Very fast | Recent deletions |
| Deep Scan | Slower | Older/more complex recovery |
Method 4: Try Other Trusted Free Tools
Aside from WinfrGUI, a few other free options are worth mentioning:
- Recuva: Very easy for beginners.
- PhotoRec: Powerful but a bit technical.
- Windows File Recovery (command line): For advanced users.
| Tool | Best Feature | Ease of Use | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| WinfrGUI | Graphical interface | Very Easy | Free |
| Recuva | Simple recovery wizard | Very Easy | Free/Paid |
| PhotoRec | Deep data recovery | Medium/Hard | Free |
Method 5: Professional Data Recovery Services (Last Resort)
If none of the DIY options work, professional data recovery labs might be your only hope.
They specialize in physically damaged drives or overwritten data.
💬 Real User Story:
“After trying three free programs with no luck, I sent my drive to a pro lab. They recovered everything, but it cost around $300.” (Source: Reddit)
✅ Use this method only if your data is truly critical.
Real Forum Success Stories
Here’s proof that recovery methods work for real people:
Reddit User: “WinfrGUI recovered my thesis after I accidentally Shift+Deleted it. Total lifesaver! I thought it was gone forever, but this tool found it within minutes. Highly recommend for anyone panicking over lost files.”
Microsoft Community Member: “File History saved me after a Windows update wiped out my work folder. I didn’t even realize File History was running in the background, but it had a full backup ready. Restored everything with just a few clicks.”
Redditor on r/techsupport: “Used Windows File Recovery (the command line version) to bring back a bunch of deleted vacation photos. It’s not super user-friendly, but it worked! If you’re comfortable with CMD, it’s a great free option.”
Tech Forum Contributor: “Shadow Copies saved me once when ransomware hit my laptop. I was able to restore an earlier version of my important documents without paying anything. Always check for Previous Versions!”
Quora User: “Tried Recuva after accidentally formatting a USB drive. It took some time scanning, but I managed to get 90% of my files back, including irreplaceable family videos. Definitely worth trying free tools first.”
Why Acting Fast Matters
When you delete a file, Windows doesn’t immediately erase it — it marks the space as “available.”
If you keep using your computer, new data might overwrite your lost files.
⚡ Best Practice: Stop using the affected drive and start recovery immediately!
Bonus Tips to Prevent Future File Loss
Prevention is always better than panic later! Here are some smart habits to protect your files:
| Backup Method | Benefits |
|---|---|
| File History | Automatic file backup |
| Cloud Services | Anywhere access (OneDrive, Google Drive) |
| External Drives | Physical local backup |
Conclusion
Accidentally losing files feels devastating, but as you can see, there are plenty of ways to bring them back. Whether it’s using File History, Previous Versions, free recovery tools like WinfrGUI, or even professional services, knowing how to restore permanently deleted files gives you a serious advantage.
Remember: the faster you act, the better your chances.
Don’t give up — your files might be just a few clicks away from coming home!
Also Read👉How to Recover Permanently Deleted Excel Files in Windows 10
