How can i recover deleted files from external hard drive?

Accidentally deleting files from an external hard drive can be distressing, especially if those files are important.

Data Deletion

Before diving into recovery methods, it’s important to understand how file deletion works:

Logical Deletion: When a file is deleted, it is often marked as deleted in the file system, but the data remains until it is overwritten.

Physical Deletion: If a file is overwritten or the drive is reformatted, recovery becomes more complex.

Tools Needed for Recovery

To recover deleted files, you will need: Panda Assistant

Data Recovery Software:

Another Storage Device: A separate drive or partition to save recovered files, preventing overwriting data on the original drive.

Preparing for Recovery

Stop Using the Drive: Immediately cease all operations on the external hard drive to prevent data overwriting.

Connect the Drive: Attach the external hard drive to your computer.

Method 1: Using Data Recovery Software

This is the most effective method for recovering deleted files.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Download and Install Recovery Software:

Choose a software option and install it on your computer (not on the external drive).

Launch the Software:

Open the program and select the external hard drive from the list of available drives.

Initiate the Scan:

Select the type of scan: Quick Scan (for recently deleted files) or Deep Scan (for more thorough recovery).

Review Scan Results:

Once the scan completes, review the list of recoverable files. Most programs allow you to preview files.

Select Files for Recovery:

Check the boxes next to the files you wish to recover.

Choose Recovery Location:

Select a different storage device to save the recovered files. This prevents data overwriting.

Recover the Files:

Click the recovery button and wait for the process to finish.

Method 2: Check the Recycle Bin

Sometimes deleted files may still be in the Recycle Bin, especially if they were moved there rather than permanently deleted.

Instructions:

Open the Recycle Bin on your desktop.

Look for Deleted Files: Search for the files you wish to recover.

Restore: Right-click on the desired file and select “Restore.”

Method 3: Using Windows File History

If you have previously set up File History, you can restore deleted files from backups.

Instructions:

Connect the External Drive if it was previously backed up.

Open Settings > Update & Security > Backup.

Select “More options” and then click on “Restore files from a current backup.”

Navigate through the backups to find the deleted files and restore them.

Method 4: Using Command Prompt

This method works for some users who are familiar with command-line interfaces.

Instructions:

Open Command Prompt:

Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, then right-click and choose “Run as administrator.”

Enter the Recovery Command:

Type the following command and press Enter:

bash

chkdsk E: /f

(Replace “E:” with the letter of your external hard drive.)

Recover Files:

Follow the on-screen instructions to potentially recover lost files.

Best Practices for Future Prevention

To avoid data loss in the future, consider these tips:

Regular Backups: Use cloud services or additional external drives to back up important files.

Enable File History: Set up Windows File History to automatically back up your files regularly.

Use Reliable Security Software: Protect against malware that may cause file corruption or loss.