How to Recover Deleted Files
Recover accidentally deleted files safely from computers, phones and cloud storage.
Recover accidentally deleted files safely from computers, phones and cloud storage. Start with the checks below and confirm the effect of each change before moving on.
Table of contents
Stop writing new data
If a file was deleted from local storage, minimize use of that drive. New data can overwrite recoverable information. Do not install recovery software onto the affected drive.
Check the safest places first
Look in Recycle Bin or Trash, cloud-service deleted items, app version history and backups. Search by file type and date in case the file was moved or renamed.
When recovery tools are appropriate
Use reputable read-only recovery tools and save recovered files to another drive. For physically failing storage or irreplaceable data, power down the device and consult a professional.
Protect recoverable data first
Stop saving, downloading or installing software on the affected drive. Deleted data may remain until new data overwrites the same storage space. If the file was on an SSD, built-in cleanup behavior can reduce the recovery window, so act promptly. For an external drive that clicks, disconnects repeatedly or is not detected, stop powering it on and consider professional recovery.
Check the safest locations in order
- Search the original folder and verify that hidden files or filters are not masking the item.
- Check Recycle Bin, Trash or the deleted-items area of the relevant app.
- Open the web version of the cloud service and inspect its recycle bin and version history.
- Check File History, Time Machine or another backup from before deletion.
- Only then consider recovery software, saving recovered files to a different physical drive.
If a synchronized folder is involved, disconnecting another device from the network can preserve a copy that has not yet received the deletion. Do not reconnect it until you have copied the file safely.
Know when to stop
Recovery software is appropriate for a healthy drive and accidental deletion, but scanning the source repeatedly can waste time and writing an installer to that drive can overwrite the target. Physical damage, encryption failures and business-critical records need specialist assessment. After recovery, open several files to confirm they are intact, create two verified copies and review why the backup did not cover the loss. A backup is reliable only after a restore test succeeds.