4 Methods to Recover Accidentally Deleted Folder on Computer

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Recovering deleted folders can help recover accidentally deleted files, outdated documents, and significant historical data. Folder recovery depends on your operating system and file storage. Learn how to recover to retrieve vital information when needed. This article describes how to restore and delete computer folders and offers four strategies to recover deleted folders.

Before we start: Evaluate your chances of recovery

Consider the elements that may affect your chances of restoring deleted folders in Windows before diving into the best recovery options. The type of deletion, duration since deletions, and storage media are considerations.

Type of Deletion

If the folder was deleted using the standard deletion function and remains in the recycling cistern, recovery is easy. You can restore it by right-clicking on it and choosing the Reset option. However, if the folder is permanently removed, such as by using Shift + Delete or removing the trash, the recovery becomes more complicated and requires special software. In these cases, the success rate may not be certain.

Time Since Deletion

The time that has passed since deletion is another factor to consider. Generally speaking, you are trying to recover deleted folders faster. You’ll be more successful. This is because Windows may rewrite the area where the deleted data is. In order to reduce the likelihood of recovery. However, if the storage device is removed from the power or the computer system, the passage of time may not matter as much.

Type of Storage Media

The type of storage media may affect the chances of recovery. For example, SSDs use a process called TRIM, which can write the specified data to be deleted at all times, making it inaccessible.

Here is a quick tip: If you have recently lost data, you may be able to use the Ctrl+Z button in the Explorer file to quickly find the deleted folders. This action can cancel the last change and may exclude deletion.

Top 4 Ways to Recover Accidentally Deleted Folder on Computer

There are several methods available to recover deleted folders in Windows, but some are more effective than others. Let’s take a look at the four tested methods we recommend to users in your situation.

Method 1: Use Data Recovery Software

Data recovery software is designed to permanently retrieve deleted data that has not been backed up elsewhere. It can help you recover files and folders that have been lost forever. With data-recovering software, you can restore the deleted folder to its original structure if the contents of the file are still physically on your storage device and the file system information is there or can be recovered. However, if the filesystem information is lost or overwritten, only each file can be restored, and they may not retain their original name. If both file system data and each file file is not available, it may be impossible to recover the folder using data recovery programs.

WinfrGUI is an easy-to-use solution developed by Microsoft Corporation for recovering erroneously deleted folders on your computer. Unlike the command-line utility, it has a graphical interface that makes the recovery process accessible to users of all skill levels. It makes the wrist recovery procedure easier and eliminates the need to use complicated commands and parameters.

To use WinfrGUI for folder recovery, follow these steps:

  • Download and install WinfrGUI from Microsoft Store (free)
Download WinfrGUI Free
  • Enable WinfrGUI and give you the necessary permissions to access your device.
  • Select the source drive that addresses the deleted folder and the target drive that you want to recover.
  • Configure your recovery settings, if necessary.
  • Click on the “Recover” button to start the recovery process.

With WinfrGUI, you can recover deleted folders without dealing with complicated commands or worrying about data loss. It is a reliable tool for protecting your important files. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user.

Method 2: Recover Accidentally Deleted Folder on Computer from Previous Versions of Windows

Windows protects against data loss by making copies of files and folders as part of a system recovery point. These copies, are called previous versions or shadow copies. Can be used to restore deleted folder. This method is effective if Windows generates a system restore point with deletion folders. Or if you enable the backup function of the file history and order the folder’s location to be restored.

To restore folders deleted from previous versions:

  • Open File Explorer
  • Move to the folder that used to have deleted files
  • Right-click the folder and select the properties
  • Go to previous version tab
  • Select the most recent previous version with the folder you want to recover.
  • Click Open and then Open in the file history to confirm that the previous version has the folder you want.
  • Select the folder you want to restore and click Restore.

Keep in mind that the recovered folder will replace the current version on your computer and this action cannot be cancelled.

Method 3: Update Accidentally Deleted Folder on Computer by Windows Backup

In addition to previous versions, you can also recover missing folders from traditional backups created using the switch and reset features. This feature is accessible in Windows from the System & Security Control Panel > Backup & Reset. (Windows 7). To restore permanently deleted folders from a Windows backup, follow these steps:

  • Open the Start menu, type “Control Panel,” and press Enter.
  • Go to System & Security > Backup & Recovery (Windows 7).
  • Click on the file restore button.
  • Select Folder Search to browse the contents of the backup.
  • Select the folder you want to cancel and click Add folder.
  • Click Next and specify the location you want to return the folder.
  • Click Restore

You can also restore deleted folders from a backup created on another computer by selecting the option to restore files from another backup. Keep in mind that administrator permissions may be required.

Method 4: Check your cloud storage or backup service.

Many users use cloud storage services for automatic backup. Services such as Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox can be very useful in data recovery situations. They provide secure, off-site storage solutions. Protect data from local drive problems, accidental deletions, and other possible problems.

If you have enabled cloud storage, such as OneDrive, you can use the following steps to recover your files:

  • Open the web browser you want and go to the OneDrive website.
  • Log in with the Microsoft account associated with your Windows computer.
  • Move to the left recycling tank folder
  • Find records in the recycling tank by using the search bar to find the folder or file you want to recover.
  • Select a folder or file and click the Return option at the top of the page.

Please note that OneDrive will store deleted files in the repository for 30 days before permanently deleting them.

Conclusion

Accidentally deleting folders can be a stressful experience, but in the right way, you can recover your important files. Whether you are using data recovery software. Depending on your previous version and Windows backup, or using cloud storage and backup services. There are options available to help you find your deleted files in Windows. Evaluate your recovery chances. Choose the most appropriate method and act quickly to increase your chances of success.

Also Read: 3 Top Methods to Restore Permanently Deleted Files Windows 11