We’ve all been there—you delete a file and then realize you actually needed it. The good news is, deleted files are often recoverable, especially if you act quickly. This guide explains step-by-step how to recover a deleted file on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
1. Check Your Recycle Bin or Trash
The first place to look is your system’s temporary storage for deleted files:
- Windows: Open the Recycle Bin on your desktop, locate your file, right-click, and select Restore.
- Mac: Open the Trash, find your file, then drag it back to its original folder or right-click Put Back.
2. Use Your Backups
If your file isn’t in the Recycle Bin or Trash:
- Windows: Use File History or Backup and Restore (if enabled) to restore previous versions.
- Mac: Use Time Machine to go back to an earlier backup.
- Cloud Services: If the file was saved in Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, check their trash/recently deleted folders.
3. Try Built-In Recovery Tools
- Windows: Use Previous Versions (right-click the folder > Restore previous versions).
- Mac: Use Time Machine to navigate to an earlier state.
4. Use File Recovery Software
If you have no backup and the file isn’t in the trash, you can try:
- Recuva (Windows)
- Disk Drill (Windows/Mac)
- EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows/Mac)
Install the software on a different drive than the one you’re recovering from to avoid overwriting data.
5. For Mobile Devices
- Android: Check the Google Photos Trash for images and videos, or use data recovery apps.
- iPhone: Check the Recently Deleted folder in Photos or restore via iCloud.
Final Tips to Avoid Future Loss
- Enable auto-backups on your devices.
- Use cloud storage for important files.
- Regularly back up to an external hard drive.
Acting quickly gives you the best chance to recover a deleted file before it’s permanently lost