Recover Deleted Files on Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide

Have you accidentally deleted important files from your Windows 10 computer? Please don't panic! Losing files can be a stressful experience, and understanding why files are deleted and using the proper recovery methods can greatly increase the chances of successfully recovering your data. In this article, we will use a step-by-step guide to show you how to recover deleted files on Windows 10.

Common reasons for files deletion

The main reasons behind file deletion will be explored here, shedding light on the different scenarios that can lead to file loss on Windows 10.

● Accidental Deletion

Accidental deletion is one of the most frequent reasons for file loss. It occurs when a user mistakenly deletes a file or folder without intending to do so. This can happen due to human error, such as pressing the wrong key, using the wrong command, or misjudging the importance of a file before deleting it. Accidental deletion can also occur during file management tasks when moving or organizing files.

● System Errors

System errors can lead to the unintended deletion of files. These errors may arise from software glitches, hardware malfunctions, or sudden power outages. When the system encounters such errors, it may automatically delete or corrupt files as a precautionary measure to prevent further issues. These errors can occur during tasks like software installations, system updates, or improper shutdowns.

● Virus Attacks

Virus attacks pose a significant threat to the integrity of files on a Windows 10 system. Malware and viruses, spread through various means like malicious email attachments, infected websites, or compromised downloads, can infiltrate the system and cause harm. Some viruses are designed to delete or encrypt files, rendering them inaccessible to the user. These attacks can result in the loss of important files and compromise the overall security of the system.

By understanding these common reasons for file deletion, users can take proactive measures to minimize the risk of file loss. This awareness can help users be more cautious during file management, implement proper system maintenance, and adopt effective security measures to prevent virus attacks.

How to recover permanently deleted files on Windows 10

Losing critical files can disrupt your work, jeopardize personal memories, or even impact your business operations. Understanding the importance of data recovery is the first step towards resolving this issue. Whether it's cherished family photos, essential documents, or crucial project files, recovering deleted files can save you from the distressing consequences of permanent loss.

When talking about the best software to recover deleted files on Windows 10, you have to mention AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional, a feature-rich software that provides a comprehensive partition management and data recovery solution for Windows 10. It is a feature-rich software that provides a comprehensive solution for partition management and data recovery on Windows PC. Among its powerful features, the "Recover Data" feature stands out, and it is definitely the first choice when you want to recover deleted files on Windows 10 or 11. It has these points that will get your attention:

- An intuitive graphical user interface, accompanied by a concise operation guide, reduces learning costs for beginners.

- Recover lost data from HDD, SSD, USB, SD card and other Windows storage media at high speed and recovery rate; and recover more than 200 data types including text, photos, videos, audio, emails, compressed files, etc.

- Compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7/Vista/XP, it also supports different file systems such as NTFS, FAT32, exFAT, ReFS, etc.

-  Committed to 100% security, no bundled software and no malicious ad pop-ups.

In addition to recovering lost files/partitions, it has other advanced features, such as password reset, wiping hard drive, migrating Windows to SSD without reinstalling, moving installed program to another drive, making bootable media, and more.

Step 1. On the main interface, click Recover > Recover Data.

Step 2. Choose the drive where the data you want to recover saved and click Start Scan.

Step 3. After scanning, all lost data on the drive will be listed. Then, tick the target file and click Recover file.

Step 4. Here, choose the proper path to save it.

Step 5. When the recovery is finished, close the software and go to the target location to find the files.

If you accidentally lost a partition, then AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional can also help you recover the lost partition.

Go to Recover > Partition Recovery on the top panel. When you get into the Partition Recovery Wizard, select a disk that you want to recover and click Next. 

Here, select Fast Search. It is recommended that you select this option the first time as it is faster than Full Search. If you are unable to recover the lost partition using Fast Search, then I recommend you try the Full Search option.

Select the lost partition and click Proceed.

Click Finish to exit this window after you see the congratulations message.

Other way to recover deleted files on Windows 10

Can you recover deleted files on Windows 10 without software? Of course, Windows 10 has some built-in features to recover lost files, but you need to back up them before they are lost, otherwise you have to seek help from third-party tools.

You can recover files through File History, make sure you have enabled the File History feature from System and Security.

First, open Control Panel and click on System and Security. Then, find File History and click it. Next, click on Recover personal files where you can see the deleted files. Finally, find the target file and click on the Recover button.

Tips for Successful File Recovery

Here are some tips to help you improve the success of your file recovery.

▶ Stop Using the Drive

When you accidentally delete files, it's crucial to immediately stop using the affected drive. Continuing to use the drive can potentially overwrite the deleted files with new data, making them harder or even impossible to recover. By avoiding any further write operations on the drive, you preserve the integrity of the deleted files and improve the likelihood of successful recovery.

▶ Use Reliable Recovery Software

To maximize your chances of recovering deleted files, it's essential to use reliable and reputable data recovery software. Choosing a trustworthy software solution minimizes the risk of further data loss or damage to your system. Take the time to research and read reviews to ensure you select a reliable tool that suits your specific needs.

▶ Perform Deep Scans

When using data recovery software, opt for deep scans rather than quick scans. Deep scans are more thorough and comprehensive, as they thoroughly examine the storage device for traces of deleted files. By performing a deep scan, you increase the likelihood of finding and recovering the deleted files you're seeking.

FAQs about recover deleted files on Windows 10

✦ How does the "Recover Data" function of AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional work?

The "Recover Data" function of AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional works by scanning your Windows 10 system's storage devices to locate and recover deleted files. It employs advanced algorithms to search for remnants of deleted files and allows you to preview the recoverable files before initiating the recovery process. Once you select the files you want to recover, the software restores them to a specified location, ensuring the safe retrieval of your deleted data.

✦ Can I recover permanently deleted files in Windows 10 using AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional?

Yes, AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional can recover permanently deleted files in Windows 10. The software has the capability to scan the storage devices and identify files that have been marked as deleted or are no longer accessible. By using its "Recover Data" function, you can successfully retrieve and restore these permanently deleted files, provided they have not been overwritten by new data.

✦ Are there any risks involved in the data recovery process?

While data recovery processes generally carry minimal risks, it's important to take certain precautions. Avoid using the affected drive or partition after file deletion to prevent overwriting the deleted data. Additionally, choose a reliable and reputable data recovery tool like AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional to ensure the safety and integrity of your files. Following best practices, such as creating backups and carefully following the recovery process, can further mitigate potential risks.

✦ Can I recover files deleted from external storage devices with this software?

Yes, AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional supports to recover deleted files from external storage devices, including USB drives, external hard drives, and SD cards. As long as the external storage device is connected to your Windows 10 system, the software can scan it and recover deleted files from it using the "Recover Data" function. Simply select the external storage device during the recovery process to initiate the scan and retrieve your deleted files.

✦ What are some alternative methods to recover deleted files in Windows 10?

Apart from using AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional, there are a few alternative methods you can try to recover deleted files in Windows 10. These include utilizing the Windows built-in "File History" feature, restoring files from a previous system backup, or using other reputable data recovery software specifically designed for Windows 10. However, it's important to note that the success of these alternative methods may vary, and it's recommended to use reliable and trusted software like AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional for efficient and effective file recovery.