How to Recover Deleted Files from Your PC or Smartphone
Losing important files—whether it’s work documents, cherished photos, or crucial app data—can be frustrating. Thankfully, modern technology offers ways to recover deleted files from your PC or smartphone, even if they seem gone forever. In this guide, we’ll explore practical methods to get your files back and share file backup tips to prevent future data loss.
Why Files Get Deleted
- Accidental deletion
- Formatting errors on drives or memory cards
- System crashes or power failures
- Malware and viruses — see best antivirus tools
- Storage corruption due to hardware issues
- App glitches
Part 1: Recovering Deleted Files from Your PC
1. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash
On Windows, open the Recycle Bin. On Mac, check the Trash. If found, right-click and choose Restore or Put Back.
2. Use File History or Time Machine
Both Windows and macOS have built-in backup tools. See our guide on Time Machine on Mac for more details.
3. Use Previous Versions (Windows)
Right-click the folder, select Properties > Previous Versions, and restore the needed version.
4. Use Data Recovery Software
Recommended tools:
We reviewed these in our best data recovery software guide.
5. Restore from Cloud Storage
Check the trash/recycle section of Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, or iCloud. See how to recover cloud files.
Part 2: Recovering Deleted Files from Your Smartphone
1. Check Recently Deleted Folder
- Android: Google Photos > Library > Bin
- iPhone: Photos > Albums > Recently Deleted
2. Restore from Cloud Backup
- Android: Google Drive > Trash or device backup settings.
- iPhone: iCloud backup via Settings.
3. Use Data Recovery Apps
DiskDigger, Dr.Fone, and iMobie PhoneRescue can recover files. Some require root or jailbreak. Read our Android recovery guide.
4. Check Messaging Apps
Media sent through WhatsApp, Telegram, or Messenger may still be available in chat folders.
Advanced Recovery Tips
- Stop using the device immediately.
- Connect the storage to another device for scanning.
- Consider professional recovery services for critical data.
Preventing Future Data Loss
- Enable automatic backups
- Use external hard drives
- Enable version history in cloud apps
- Install antivirus software
- Avoid risky downloads
Common Myths About Deleted File Recovery
- Myth: Once deleted, files are gone forever — False
- Myth: Only professionals can recover files — False
- Myth: Formatting destroys all data — False
Final Thoughts
By acting quickly and using the right recovery methods, you can often recover deleted files from your PC or smartphone. Still, regular backups remain the best protection against data loss.