Recovering Deleted Files on Windows- A Comprehensive Guide to Unerase Your Lost Data

How to See Deleted Files on Windows

In the digital age, data loss can be a daunting experience, especially when important files are accidentally deleted from your Windows system. Whether it’s a cherished photo, a crucial document, or a cherished video, the loss of such files can be distressing. However, there are several methods to recover deleted files on Windows, and in this article, we will explore some of the most effective ways to see deleted files on Windows.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that when a file is deleted from a Windows system, it is not immediately erased from the storage device. Instead, the space occupied by the file is marked as available for new data. This means that until the space is overwritten by new data, the deleted file can potentially be recovered. Let’s delve into some of the methods to see deleted files on Windows.

One of the simplest ways to recover deleted files on Windows is by using the “Previous Versions” feature. This feature is built into Windows and allows you to restore files from previous versions of the file system. To use this feature, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the folder or file you want to recover and select “Properties.”
2. Go to the “Previous Versions” tab.
3. Check the box next to the version you want to restore.
4. Click “Restore” to recover the deleted file.

If the “Previous Versions” feature is not available or doesn’t work for you, you can try using file recovery software. There are many third-party applications available that can help you recover deleted files on Windows. Some popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. Here’s a general guide on how to use file recovery software:

1. Download and install a file recovery program from a reputable source.
2. Run the program and select the drive or folder where the deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process, which may take some time depending on the size of the drive.
4. Once the scan is complete, preview the deleted files and select the ones you want to recover.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and start the recovery process.

Another method to see deleted files on Windows is by using the “Disk Management” tool. This tool allows you to view and manage the storage devices on your computer. To use “Disk Management” to recover deleted files:

1. Press “Windows + R” to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “diskmgmt.msc” and press Enter to open the Disk Management tool.
3. Look for the drive where the deleted files were located, and you should see a list of partitions.
4. Right-click on the partition and select “Properties.”
5. Go to the “Quota” tab and click “Show Quotas.”
6. Enable “Enable Quotas” and set a quota limit for the partition.
7. Right-click on the partition and select “New Quota Entry.”
8. Set a quota for the space occupied by the deleted files and assign it to the “Deleted Files” quota entry.
9. The deleted files should now appear as available space in the partition.

In conclusion, there are several methods to see deleted files on Windows. Whether you use the built-in “Previous Versions” feature, third-party file recovery software, or the “Disk Management” tool, it’s important to act quickly and avoid overwriting the deleted files. By following these methods, you can increase your chances of successfully recovering your deleted files on Windows.