Windows updates are normally beneficial, providing important security patches and new features. However, sometimes updates can go wrong and cause issues like deleting personal files. If you’ve lost files after a problematic Windows update, don’t panic – in many cases, you can recover them. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to get your files back.
Identify The Cause of The File Loss
The first step is to figure out exactly why files went missing after the update. There are a few potential reasons:
Corrupt System Files
If the update failed to install properly, it may have corrupted key system files like the file allocation table (FAT) or NTFS partition. This prevents Windows from locating files on the hard drive correctly.
Accidental Deletion
Sometimes updates include cleanup routines that delete unused files. If personal files get flagged as unused, the update may delete them by mistake.
Drive Errors
A flawed update could potentially damage drive sectors, rendering data unreadable. This rare issue is more likely on older mechanical hard drives.
User Profile Issues
Updates may affect user profiles, causing documents and settings to revert to defaults. This can make it seem like files are gone.
Pinpointing the cause will dictate the best recovery method.
Attempt To Restore From Backup
Before diving into repair procedures, try restoring affected files from a backup if one exists. Options include:
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File History – Windows’ built-in backup runs continuously in the background, allowing you to restore previous versions of files.
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System Restore – Reverting the system to an earlier restore point may bring files back.
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External Drive / Cloud Backup – If files were backed up to another device or cloud service, you can retrieve them from there.
Backup restoration is the quickest and easiest way to recover lost files. If you don’t have a backup, move on to the next methods.
Run The Windows Update Troubleshooter
Microsoft provides an automated troubleshooter that can detect and repair common issues caused by updates. To run it:
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Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
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Under “Get up and running” select the Windows Update option.
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The troubleshooter will analyze the system for problems and attempt repairs.
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Once complete, check if your files have reappeared.
The troubleshooter can resolve update-related corruption that made files inaccessible.
Use File Recovery Software
If system restores don’t bring files back, the next recourse is data recovery software. Several excellent options exist:
Recuva
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Free tool from Piriform with deep scan capabilities.
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Can recover files marked as deleted by the update.
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Has advanced modes for damaged drives and corrupted directories.
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
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Widely used paid software with positive reviews.
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Recoups documents, media, emails, and more.
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Allows previewing files before recovery.
Stellar Data Recovery
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Has physical and logical recovery options.
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Uses unique techniques like corrupted partition repair.
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Great for recovering multimedia like photos or video.
Follow each program’s guide to scan the system and restore deleted files.
Use Command Prompt Tools
Advanced users can leverage Command Prompt utilities to locate and recover files that don’t show up in Explorer:
chkdsk
Scans drive errors and repairs corrupted system files. May make seemingly lost files accessible again.
sfc /scannow
System File Checker verifies and replaces damaged Windows system files.
TestDisk
Open source tool for recovering lost partitions and boot sectors.
Guidance on using these tools is readily available online.
Reset Your User Profile
If many key files like documents and photos are missing after an update, a corrupted user profile may be the issue. To fix:
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Backup data first if possible.
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Log into a new Windows user profile.
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Delete the old profile folder located in
C:\Users\ -
Relogin – this will recreate your profile.
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Restore data from backup.
Resetting the profile essentially starts fresh while retaining personal data.
Perform A Clean Install
If all else fails, a clean install of Windows may be necessary. This gives you a completely fresh system.
Before installing:
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Backup data – use file recovery software to pull any retrievable files off first.
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Gather application licenses & serial numbers – you’ll need these to reinstall programs later.
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Backup browser data – save bookmarks, passwords, and other browser data so you can restore them later.
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Verify Windows 10 license – check that you have a valid license to reactivate Windows after installation.
A clean install should be the last resort, but is an option if you still need critical lost files.
Prevent Future Update Issues
Once you’ve recovered your files, take steps to avoid similar issues going forward:
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Maintain good backups – File History, external drives, and cloud storage help protect your data.
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Delay feature updates – Use Pro or Enterprise editions to defer major updates if you need stability.
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Pause updates – Use the pause feature to halt updates temporarily if you have an urgent project due.
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Disconnect from the web – Unplug your network when installing updates to avoid potential corruption.
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Check update reviews – Read feedback on an update before installing to avoid known issues.
With vigilance, you can stay productive and avoid lost work even when updates don’t go smoothly.
Summarizing Key Points
Losing files to a problematic Windows update can be stressful. Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques, you can often get your files back:
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Restore from backup if available – it’s the fastest way.
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Use built-in tools like the Update Troubleshooter.
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Run data recovery software to retrieve deleted files.
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Try Command Prompt utilities like SFC and chkdsk.
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Reset user profiles that may have been corrupted.
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And if all else fails, clean install Windows and pull files off first.
With some patience and effort, you can recover from a bad update and get your system back on track. Just be sure to implement preventive measures going forward.
