Have you accidentally deleted an important file on your Windows 11 computer? Don’t panic, there are ways to recover deleted files on Windows 11. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to recover deleted files on Windows 11 and some useful tips to prevent data loss in the future.
Why Is It Important to Recover Deleted Files?
Accidentally deleting a file can be a frustrating experience, especially if it was an important document or photo. However, it is important to try and recover the deleted file as soon as possible because the longer you wait, the higher the chances of the file being overwritten by new data.
Recover Permanently Deleted Files for Free
Windows 11 has a built-in feature called “File History” that automatically creates backups of your files. If you have enabled this feature, you can easily recover deleted files for free. Here’s how:
- Open the folder where the deleted file was located.
- Click on the “History” button in the top menu bar.
- A new window will open showing all the previous versions of the file.
- Select the version you want to recover and click on the “Restore” button.
If you have not enabled File History, you can still try to recover deleted files using third-party data recovery software. Some popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill.
Use a Backup
If you regularly back up your files, you can easily recover deleted files from your backup. Windows 11 has a built-in backup feature called “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)” that allows you to create backups of your files and system settings. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the “Control Panel” and click on “Backup and Restore (Windows 7).”
- Click on “Restore my files” and follow the prompts to select the backup you want to restore from.
- Select the files you want to recover and click on “Restore.”
How to Prevent Data Loss on Windows 11
While it is possible to recover deleted files on Windows 11, it is always better to prevent data loss in the first place. Here are some tips to help you avoid accidentally deleting important files:
Enable File History
As mentioned earlier, File History is a built-in feature on Windows 11 that automatically creates backups of your files. It is important to enable this feature and set it up to back up your files regularly. This way, if you accidentally delete a file, you can easily recover it from a previous version.
Use Cloud Storage
Storing your files on a cloud storage service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive can also help prevent data loss. These services automatically sync your files to the cloud, so even if you accidentally delete a file on your computer, you can still access it from the cloud.
Be Careful When Deleting Files
When deleting files, make sure you are only deleting the ones you no longer need. It is always a good idea to double-check before hitting the delete button. You can also use the “Recycle Bin” as a safety net, as it stores deleted files for a period of time before permanently deleting them.
Use Data Recovery Software
If you do not have a backup or File History enabled, data recovery software can be a lifesaver. However, it is important to note that the success rate of data recovery depends on various factors, such as how long ago the file was deleted and if it has been overwritten by new data. Therefore, it is always better to have a backup or use File History to increase your chances of recovering deleted files.
Real-World Examples of Recovering Deleted Files on Windows 11
Recovering Deleted Photos
Photos are often the most precious files we have on our computers, and accidentally deleting them can be devastating. However, with the right tools, it is possible to recover deleted photos on Windows 11. One user shared their experience on a forum, stating that they were able to recover their deleted photos using EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
Recovering Deleted Documents
Documents are another type of file that we often need to recover. One user shared their experience on a forum, stating that they were able to recover a deleted Word document using Recuva. They also mentioned that they had to act quickly and not use their computer after realizing the file was deleted to increase their chances of recovery.
Who Is Responsible for Data Recovery?
In most cases, it is the responsibility of the user to recover deleted files on Windows 11. However, if you are using a work computer, your company’s IT department may be able to assist you with data recovery. It is always a good idea to check with your IT department before attempting to recover deleted files on a work computer.
Takeaways
Accidentally deleting a file on Windows 11 can be a stressful experience, but it is important to act quickly to increase your chances of recovering the file. You can use built-in features like File History or backups to recover deleted files for free, or use third-party data recovery software. To prevent data loss in the future, make sure to enable File History, use cloud storage, and be careful when deleting files. With these tips, you can avoid the frustration of losing important files and easily recover them if needed.
