I Accidentally Deleted File in File Explorer! How to Recover That?

What to do if you accidentally deleted file in File Explorer? The best option is to use a professional data recovery software for Windows. This article will comprehensively introduce it for you.

Irene

By Irene / Updated on September 2, 2024

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User case: I accidentally deleted file in File Explorer

 

In Windows 10, I have searched a folder for files containing a certain name and deleted it. Afterwards, I reconsidered and wanted those files back; I then went looking into the recycle bin, but it was not there. Is there any way to recover a file that was deleted through the Windows File Explorer search?

- Question from Super User

When you delete the files in File Explorer, where do deleted files go? They are generally temporarily stored in the Windows Recycle Bin unless you press Shift + Delete. In other words, you can easily undo delete in File Explore by going to the Recycle Bin to restore it.

restore-from-recycle-bin

But what to do if you want to recover the deleted files but you permanently delete it by pressing the buttons or emptying the Recycle Bin? In this passage, we will share you a comprehensive guide for easy data recovery.

How to recover deleted files in Windows File Explorer?

There are 4 ways to help you if you accidentally deleted file in Windows File Explorer. For those who permanently remove the files, they can choose professional data recovery software in Windows. If you have a good habit of backup, here are also guides for you to recover deleted files in Windows File Explorer.

Method 1. Use AOMEI FastRecovery to recover deleted files in File Explorer.

When you accidentally deleted files in File Explorer, you can run professional data recovery software for Windows computers to enhance the success rate. For example, AOMEI FastRecovery is such a reliable tool that can help you effectively recover lost files from many complex data loss scenarios.  Here are some outstanding features of this powerful software:

Free DownloadWindows PCs and Servers
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  • Comprehensive scanning methods: AOMEI FastRecovery supports both deep scan and quick scan, helping you find deleted and lost data quickly and thoroughly.

  • Wide data coverage: It can recover more than 1000 file types, including documents, pictures, videos, audio files, zip files, and emails (even if you need to recover deleted emails after years).

  • Compatibility with all Windows: You can use AOMEI FastRecovery on all Windows operating systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, and 2012.

  • Recovery from multiple devices: This tool supports data recovery from various storage devices, including SSD, HDD, USB flash drives, SD cards, and local drives, such as D drive data recovery.

  • High recovery rate and speed: AOMEI FastRecovery ensures a high success rate that nearly reaches at 99%, and fast data recovery process.

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI FastRecovery on your computer.

Step 2. Select a location to scan first to find the lost data on your Windows.

Select A Drive to Scan

Step 3. It will take some time to scan and find the lost data. Wait patiently.

Scan and Search

Note: AOMEI FastRecovery provides two scan modes, Quickly Scan and Deep Scan. The Quickly Scan will search for your deleted data in the fastest way; And the Deep Scan will make further searches for other missing data.

Step 4. After the scan is complete,  here you can preview the recovered files, and select the ones you want to restore. Click "Recover".

Choose Files

Step 5. Select a folder path to store the recovered items and click "Select Folder".

Save the Recovered Data

Then the recovered files will be saved in the specified location.

Method 2. Recover permanently deleted files in File Explorer

To recover permanently deleted files in File Explorer, you can Backup and Restore (available in Windows 7 and later versions) if you have enabled this feature beforehand. This method also works on the files being lost due to system failure or accidental overwriting. Users can configure the backup content and plans according to their different needs.

To recover deleted Facebook files, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Go to the Control Panel, and select System and Security > Backup and Restore in turn.

Recover Files Windows Backup Restore

Step 2:. Click Restore my files.

restore-my-files

Step 3. Click Browse for files to choose the files you want to recover, and then click Next.

browse-for-files

Step 4. Specify the saving path for the recovered files, and click Restore.

select-location

Tips: Except for Windows’ built-in backup features, there are many excellent backup methods available. One of the most convenient options is to create file backups using cloud storage services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive. If you unfortunately suffer data loss in these Cloud storage, the aforementioned AOMEI FastRecovery can also help you recover data from Cloud Storage.

Method 3. Recover accidentally deleted files by System Restore

A System Restore Point can restore your system to its former operating state, allowing you to resolve issues and retrieve deleted or corrupted user profiles. However, any apps, drivers, or updates installed following a restore point will be lost.

Step 1. Type "create restore point" in the Windows search bar > click Open.

Create restore point

Step 2. Click the System Restore button, then the System Restore wizard will pop up.

System Restore

Step 3. Click on Next.

System restore

Step 4. Select the date to restore > click Scan for affected programs to view which programs will stop working after using this restore point > tap Close.

Select restore point

Step 5. You can skip the scanning step and just click Next anyway. Then, confirm and start the restoration.

Method 4. Recover permanently deleted files with Windows File Recovery

Windows File Recovery is a command-line utility that reserves deleted data. It is available in the Microsoft Store and requires the version of Windows 10 2004 (May 2020 Update) or higher along with Windows 11. This tool can recover many types of files on your computer, including D drive data.

Step 1. Check your Version. Click “Settings > System > About” in order, and observe the Windows specifications. If the Version Number is 2004 or higher, you can continue to follow up.

check the version

Step 2. Select Microsoft Store and search for “Windows File Recovery”. Choose “Get” to download the tool.

search windows file recovery

Step 3. Open it, and you will see a Command Prompt window with a few syntax examples.

syntax examples

Note:  When you perform this tool, you must have a clear understanding of the target file names, paths, keywords, or extensions in your recovery process. Besides, please notice that the program only supports file formats of JPEG, PDF, PNG, MPEG, Office files, MP3, MP4, and ZIP.

Step 4. Type the specific command to make the external hard drive data recovery.

windows file recovery

Conclusion

It is easy to recover lost data when you accidentally deleted file in File Explorer. AOMEI FastRecovery is the reliable data recovery software for Windows computers to recover data from many situations, even if you permanently removed the files. If you have a good habit of backup or don't mind troubles, you can also follow the other methods to undo delete in File Explorer in Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.

Irene
Irene · Staff Editor
Irene is an Editor of AOMEI Technology. She devotes herself in giving insightful thoughts on common computer problems with simple and clear guidance. Irene loves to help people solve problems and explore more solutions on relevant issues. She loves reading, singing and travelling.