Recover Deleted Files in Windows Server 2016

Data loss is a common issue in Windows systems, affecting many users who need help recovering lost files on Windows 10 or Windows 11. However, data loss on Windows Server can be even more devastating. Microsoft's Windows Server is a suite of operating systems specifically designed to manage multiple devices on servers. Released in 2016, Windows Server 2016 is available to enterprises and business owners to organize and support multiple devices. If you've lost data on Windows Server 2016, this article will guide you through several effective methods for recovering deleted files from the server.

2 ways to recover deleted files in Windows Server 2016

Deleted files are not transferred to the user's recycle bin; rather, they are promptly removed from a shared network folder.

If users have inadvertently deleted files from a shared folder, they may resort to actions such as utilizing the Audit Policy to determine the individual responsible for the deletion, relying on backups, or employing a powerful Windows data recovery utility, which is significantly simpler.

Method 1. Deleted files recovery with Volume Shadow Copy

The Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) in Windows Server is a feature that allows you to create backups or snapshots of your data, even while the data is in use. This service enables the creation of consistent point-in-time copies of files or entire volumes, which can be used for backups, data recovery, or restoring previous versions of files. VSS is particularly useful for ensuring data integrity during backup operations and allows users to recover files that might have been accidentally deleted or modified.

You can view, verify, and restore an earlier version of the files/folders you desire from the snapshots that are taken regularly.  Many users have been able to retrieve their vanished files with the assistance of Windows 10 Shadow Copy. The only point is if you want to use this method, the shadow copy feature must be enabled in advance.

Step 1. Go to the shared folder > right-click the parent folder that contains the deleted files > Properties.

Step 2. Previous Versions > choose an earlier or the latest version > click Open to view it > copy and paste the wanted files to get them back.

Method 2. Recover deleted files from Windows Server 2016 via professional data recovery tool

How to effortlessly retrieve expunged files from a server? The Recycle Bin is not a viable option for recovering deleted files, as they will be directly eliminated from the device. The files will be irreversibly deleted if the Shadow Copy feature is not enabled, and there will be no way to locate them.

However, do not become disheartened; there are still opportunities to recover deleted files with the assistance of a dependable Windows Server data recovery tool, such as AOMEI FastRecovery. This tool is specifically designed for Windows users and is compatible with Windows Server 2022, 2019, 2016, and 2012 (Windows 11/10/8/8.1/7 also supported).

Note: If you need to recover data on two more computers, please choose the Tech edition.

Step 1. Install and launch AOMEI FastRecovery. Choose the exact partition or disk where your data lost and click Scan.

Step 2. Then, the recovery tool start to scan and search. lt will execute the “Quickly Scan" first to find your deleted data fast, and then execute the “Deep Scan" for searching other lost data.

Step 3. Once the scan is completed, all deleted files, recycle bins and other missing files will be displayed. Please select the file you would like to recover and then click "Recover".

Step 4. Then, select a folder path to save your recovered files.

Step 5. Wait patiently for this process of recovering ends.

Ending lines

If you don't know how to recover deleted files from Windows Server 2016, hope this post will save your data. 

FAQs: How to recover permanently deleted files from Windows Server

1. Why do you need to stop the writing of new data to the disk?

The directory entry of a file is marked as "overwritable" when it is deleted, but it is not instantaneously removed from the hard disk. This implies that the file can be theoretically recovered provided that the data is not overwritten by new data. Consequently, it is imperative to cease the writing of new data to the disk promptly to enhance the likelihood of successful file recovery.

2. What are the most frequent causes of inadvertent file deletion?

• Operational errors: Negligence or incorrect operation may lead to the accidental deletion of files when operating files.
• Malware or virus infection: The deletion or corruption of files may result from the infection of the computer with malware or a virus.
• Hardware failure: The loss or inaccessibility of files may result from the failure of a hard disk or storage device.
• System Error: Errors or crashes in the operating system may lead to the deletion or corruption of files.

3. Are there any recommendations for preventing accidental deletion of files?

• Consistent backup: Utilize professional backup software for Windows or Shadow Copies to regularly backup critical files.
• Exercise caution: Before deleting a file, verify that you wish to do so to prevent its exploitation.
• Utilize anti-virus software: To safeguard your computer from malware and virus attacks, install and update anti-virus software.
• Maintain hardware: Conduct routine inspections of your hard disk and other storage devices to promptly identify and rectify any hardware malfunctions.
• Keep malware away: Prevent malware damage to your computer by refraining from installing and using insecure software from unknown sources.