Introduction
Losing important files due to not saving or accidentally deleting them can be incredibly frustrating. As someone who relies heavily on my computer for work and personal projects, I’ve experienced this unfortunate situation many times. However, there are several effective methods I’ve learned to recover unsaved and deleted files. In this comprehensive guide, I will outline various ways to rescue your missing files and get you back on track.
Check the App Auto-Recover and Auto-Save Features
Many applications have built-in auto-recover and auto-save features that can help restore unsaved file progress. Here are some apps to check:
Microsoft Word
- Go to File > Info > Manage Document > Recover Unsaved Documents
- Select any auto-saved versions of your document
Microsoft Excel
- Go to File > Info > Manage Workbook > Recover Unsaved Workbooks
- Choose any auto-saved versions of your spreadsheet
Google Docs
- Click File > See revision history
- Roll back to an earlier auto-saved version
Adobe Photoshop
- Go to File > Open Recent > Recover Unsaved Documents
- Browse and open any auto-saved PSD files
Other Apps
- Auto-recover options may be found under History, Recover Previous, Unsaved Files
Checking application auto-saves should be the first solution to try, as it’s quick and easy.
Find Backup Versions of the File
If you previously backed up the missing file, you may be able to restore a copy from backup storage. Places to check for backup versions include:
- Local computer backups – File History on Windows, Time Machine on Mac
- External storage – USB drive, external hard drive
- Cloud storage – Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud
- Email – The file may be attached in a sent email
- Document collaboration apps – Google Docs, Office 365, Box, etc.
Searching backup sources thoroughly can uncover a copy of the unsaved or deleted file.
Use File Recovery Software
If application auto-saves and backups don’t have the file you need, specialized file recovery software offers another option. Some free and paid programs to try:
Recuva
- Free file recovery tool for Windows
- Deep scan can find permanent deleted files
Disk Drill
- Free and premium data recovery for Mac & Windows
- Powerful deep scanning capabilities
Stellar Data Recovery
- Free and paid versions for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
- Recovers 300+ file formats from disk, USB, etc.
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
- Award-winning premium software for PCs & Mac
- Quick scan and deep scan modes
File recovery software digs deep to find residual traces of files on your drives and storage devices. Follow tutorials to optimize your chances.
Send Drive to a Data Recovery Service
For valuable, irreplaceable files, a professional data recovery service may be able to rescue data from a damaged drive. Options include:
- Local computer repair shop – Some shops offer data recovery services
- Remote recovery experts – Mail in your damaged drive to a specialized company
- In-lab clean room recovery – For drives with physical damage
Professional recovery can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, but can retrieve files when other options fail.
Don’t Overwrite the Files’ Disk Space
If you still haven’t found the missing files, stop using the computer or drive they were on. Continuing normal activity can overwrite the deleted data, making recovery impossible.
Also, avoid any disk maintenance like defrags, cleanups, or OS reinstallation until after recovered.
Contact IT Support for Assistance
For business-critical files, promptly contact your IT support team. They have advanced tools and techniques that can rescue deleted files on company networks, servers, and devices.
Don’t attempt recovery yourself, as this could damage the system. Let the experts handle it.
Prevention Techniques
Along with the above recovery methods, good file management practices can help avoid lost file situations:
- Enable auto-save in your apps and adjust the frequency
- Set up automatic backups to local, external, and cloud destinations
- Save files frequently and update multiple versions
- Pause Time Machine/File History before manipulating important files
- Store files in more than one location such as computer and cloud
Developing prevention habits reduces the stress of lost files and time spent recovering them.
Don’t Lose Hope!
Losing unsaved and deleted files can be extremely upsetting and halt your productivity. However, there are many powerful recovery options available to reclaim your missing data. Don’t panic! Carefully work through auto-saves, backups, software tools, and professional help until your files reappear. Consistent prevention practices also limit how often you encounter this problem. Stay calm, remain determined, and you can get back on track.
