How to Restore Deleted Files Windows 10/11

daniel-dincht
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restore-deleted-files-windows-10

Hey there! If you’ve ever accidentally deleted an important file, you know how stressful it can be. Whether it’s a document, photo, or something else, losing it can feel like a major setback. But don’t worry, if you’re using Windows 10 or 11, there are plenty of ways to restore deleted files Windows 10. In this video, I’ll walk you through some simple and effective methods to get your files back without losing your cool.

📊 2025 Data Recovery Trends & Insights

1. Common Causes of Data Loss in 2025

TrendDescription
AI IntegrationUtilizing machine learning to improve recovery accuracy and speed.
Cloud-Based SolutionsAdoption of cloud services for scalable and accessible data recovery.
Zero Trust SecurityImplementing strict access controls and multi-factor authentication to protect data.
Ransomware ProtectionEnhancing backup strategies to defend against ransomware attacks.
Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS)Cloud-based solutions offering rapid recovery from data loss incidents.

📈 Data Recovery Trends Chart (2025)

According to EaseUS’s 2025 data recovery statistics, the primary causes of data loss are:​

  • Logical Errors (40%): Such as accidental deletion, formatting, or file system corruption.
  • Hardware Failures (30%): Including aging hardware, physical impacts, or sudden power outages.
  • Software Issues (20%): Like virus infections, including ransomware encryption or virus-induced data deletion.​

These statistics underscore the importance of regular backups and reliable recovery tools. ​

2. Most Recovered File Formats

EaseUS’s survey of over 69,000 users revealed the most commonly recovered file formats:​

  • PDF: 26.95%
  • DOCX: 15.22%
  • XLSX: 14.90%
  • DOC: 6.68%
  • XLS: 5.40%​

These findings highlight the critical need for data recovery solutions that support a wide range of file formats. ​

3. Cloud-Based Data Recovery Solutions

The increasing adoption of cloud services has led to a rise in cloud-based data recovery solutions. These services offer advantages such as:​

  • Scalability: Easily adjust storage capacity as needed.
  • Accessibility: Recover data from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • Enhanced Security: Advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication protect data.​

Given the diverse causes of data loss, selecting the appropriate recovery tool can make all the difference. Here are some top-rated solutions to assist you in retrieving your lost files.

🛠️ Built-In Recovery Options

1. The Recycle Bin Method

If you haven’t emptied the Recycle Bin, restoring deleted files is straightforward:​

restore-pdf-from-recycle-bin
  1. Open the Recycle Bin by double-clicking its icon on the desktop.
  2. Locate the file(s) you wish to restore.
  3. Right-click on the file and select Restore.​

This action returns the file to its original location.​

Note: If the Recycle Bin has been emptied, the files are not permanently lost and can often be recovered using other methods.​

2. File History Backup

Windows 10 and 11 offer a feature called File History, which automatically backs up your files.

file-history

To restore files using File History:​

  1. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.
  2. Click on More options under Back up using File History.
  3. Select Restore files from a current backup.
  4. Browse through the available backups and select the version of the file you wish to restore.​

Note: File History must be enabled and running for this method to work.​

💻 Windows File Recovery Tool

The Windows File Recovery tool is a free command-line utility from Microsoft designed to recover deleted files.​

windows-file-recovery

Installation:

  1. Open the Microsoft Store.
  2. Search for Windows File Recovery.
  3. Click Get to install the application.​

Basic Usage:

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and use the following syntax:​

bash
winfr source-drive: destination-drive: [/mode] [/switches]
  • source-drive: The drive where the file was deleted.
  • destination-drive: A different drive to save the recovered files.
  • /mode: Choose between Regular, Extensive, or Signature mode.
  • /switches: Additional options like /n for specifying file names.​

For detailed instructions and examples, refer to Microsoft’s official guide.​

🧰 Top Third-Party Recovery Tools

1. Recuva

Recuva is a popular free data recovery tool known for its user-friendly interface.​

PROS& CONS:

  • ✔️Easy to use with a wizard interface.
  • ✔️Supports a wide range of file types.
  • ✔️Portable version available.
  • ❌Advanced features require the paid version.
  • ❌May not recover files from heavily damaged drives.​

2. WinfrGUI

WinfrGUI is a graphical user interface for the Windows File Recovery tool, making it more accessible for users uncomfortable with command-line operations.​

Download WinfrGUI Free

PROS& CONS:

  • ✔️User-friendly interface.
  • ✔️Supports multiple file systems.
  • ✔️100% Free to use.​
  • ❌Limited to Windows File Recovery’s capabilities.
  • ❌May not support all file types.​

3. Glarysoft File Recovery

Glarysoft File Recovery is a free tool that offers quick and deep scan options.​

PROS& CONS:

  • ✔️Simple and clean interface.
  • ✔️No installation required (portable).
  • ✔️Supports various file systems.​
  • ❌Advanced features are limited.
  • ❌May not recover files from severely corrupted drives.​

⚠️ Best Practices for File Recovery

  • Act Quickly: The sooner you attempt recovery after deletion, the higher the chances of success.
  • Avoid Using the Affected Drive: Continued use can overwrite the deleted files, making recovery more difficult.
  • Use a Different Drive for Recovery: Always save recovered files to a different drive to prevent overwriting.
  • Regular Backups: Enable File History or use third-party backup solutions to protect your data.​

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I recover permanently deleted files in Windows 10/11?

Learn whether it’s possible to recover files after they’ve been emptied from the Recycle Bin and how to use advanced recovery methods.

Q2. How do I restore files from the Recycle Bin in Windows 10/11?

A step-by-step guide on restoring files that have been moved to the Recycle Bin but not yet permanently deleted.

Q3. What should I do if I accidentally deleted important files in Windows 10/11?

Tips for immediate actions to take in order to maximize the chances of recovering deleted files without overwriting them.

Q4. Is there any built-in tool to recover lost files in Windows 10/11?

Information about native tools like File History and Previous Versions, and how to use them to restore deleted or lost files.

Q5. How can third-party software help in file recovery on Windows 10/11?

Insights into third-party recovery software, how they work, and which tools might be best for more complex file recovery scenarios.

Final Thoughs

So, as you can see, it’s pretty straightforward to restore deleted files in Windows 10—whether it’s through the Recycle Bin, File History, or other recovery options. With these tips in your back pocket, you can quickly recover your important files the next time they go missing. Hopefully, this helps ease any worries and gives you a little peace of mind!

>>Also Read: 7 Best Softwares to Recover Deleted Files from SD Card