How to Recover Microsoft Project File [Top 5 Ways]

What causes the loss of Microsoft Projects?

Microsoft Project files are critical assets for project management, often containing intricate schedules, budgets, and task details. Unfortunately, these files can be vulnerable to loss due to various reasons. Understanding these causes can help prevent data loss and ensure project continuity. Below are some common reasons Microsoft Project files might be lost:

1. Accidental deletion

One of the most common causes is unintentional deletion by users. This can happen when cleaning up files, during routine system maintenance, or when users mistakenly delete the wrong file.

2. Hardware failures

Hard drive malfunctions, SSD failures, or other hardware-related issues can lead to data corruption or loss. Power surges or physical damage to storage devices may also render files inaccessible.

3. Software crashes

Microsoft Project, like any other software, may crash unexpectedly due to bugs, software conflicts, or inadequate system resources. These crashes can result in unsaved work or corrupted project files.

4. Virus or malware attacks

Malware infections, ransomware attacks, or viruses can encrypt, delete, or corrupt Microsoft Project files. These attacks often target critical data, causing significant disruption to workflows.

5. Corrupted files

File corruption can occur due to improper file handling, abrupt power outages during file saving, or transferring files through unreliable storage media. Corrupted files may become unreadable or fail to open entirely.

How to recover unsaved Microsoft Project files?

Here are five simple methods to recover unsaved Microsoft Project files quickly. Whether you forgot to save or encountered an unexpected issue, these solutions will help you get back on track. Let’s dive into the details and explore each method step by step:

Way 1. Recover unsaved Microsoft Project file via AOMEI FastRecovery

AOMEI FastRecovery is an excellent tool for recovering unsaved Microsoft Project files. This powerful software works like a digital rescue kit, capable of retrieving lost files from various locations, including PCs, external hard drives, and memory cards.

✍ Key features of AOMEI FastRecovery:

✧Compatible with over 1,000 file formats, including unsaved Microsoft Project files.
✧ A versatile, all-in-one solution for recovering data from Windows computers, USB drives, external hard drives, and more.
✧ Efficiently restores lost MS Project files caused by scenarios like emptied recycle bins, accidental or permanent deletions, partition errors, system crashes, or formatting.
✧ Ensures a 100% safe and user-friendly recovery experience.

AOMEI FastRecovery provides a reliable and straightforward way to recover essential files, making it an excellent choice for handling unexpected data loss.

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 for finding 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 recovery to end.

Way 2. Recover the unsaved MS files from Temporary Files Folder

Many applications, including Microsoft Project, generate temporary files stored in the Windows Temp folder. These files can sometimes help recover unsaved or lost data. To retrieve a missing Microsoft Project file, follow these steps:

Step 1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2. Type %temp% and press Enter to navigate to the Temp folder.

Step 3. Use the search bar to locate files with extensions like .mpp, .mpt, or .msp.

Step 4. Once identified, move the file to a safe location, such as your desktop, to avoid accidental overwriting.

Step 5. Open the file in Microsoft Project. If it loads successfully, save it with a new name to secure your work.

This method offers a quick and effective way to recover unsaved project files directly from the Temp folder.

Way 3. Use Autosave Feature to recover MS Project

Losing an unsaved Microsoft Project file can be stressful, but the Autosave feature can come to your rescue. This built-in function automatically saves your progress, minimizing the risk of data loss. Here’s how you can use it to recover your files:

Step 1. Launch Microsoft Project on your computer.

Step 2. Go to the File tab to access the Autosave files, typically stored in the designated Autosave folder.

Step 3. Look for files named similarly to Autosave_Projectname.mpp. These are the automatically saved versions of your projects.

Step 4. Use the date and time stamps on the files to identify the most recent version.

Step 5. Double-click the file to open it, then save it to a secure location of your choice.

The Autosave feature works seamlessly in the background, ensuring your progress is protected. By following these steps, you can quickly retrieve your unsaved project files with minimal effort.

Way 4. Check Recycle Bin to recover unsaved MS files

If your Microsoft Project file has gone missing, the Recycle Bin might hold the solution. Follow these steps to quickly locate and restore your file:

Step 1. Look for the Recycle Bin icon, usually in the upper-left corner of your desktop.

Step 2. If it’s not visible, use the Start menu search bar and type "Recycle Bin" to locate it.

Step 3. Open the Recycle Bin and browse through the contents.

Step 4. Look for your missing .MPP file.

Step 5. Once you find the file, right-click on it and select "Restore". The file will return to its original location on your computer.

The Recycle Bin is often the easiest and quickest place to recover lost files, making it a great first option when trying to retrieve a Microsoft Project document.

Way 5. Restore Microsoft Project file from Backup

Using a backup is a reliable way to recover missing Microsoft Project files, especially if you regularly back up your data. Here’s how you can restore your files through different backup methods:

1. Check external storage devices

Step 1. If your files were backed up on a USB drive or external hard disk, connect the device to your computer.

Step 2. Browse through the storage to locate and retrieve your missing .MPP file.

2. Use Cloud Backup services

Step 1. If you synced your files with a service like OneDrive, log in to your cloud account and search for the project file.

Step 2. To verify your sync settings, open the Settings app, select Accounts, and navigate to Windows backup.

3. Restore previous versions with File History

Step 1. If File History is enabled, open File Explorer and navigate to the folder where your file was stored.

Step 2. Right-click on the folder or file and select "Restore previous versions".

Step 3. Choose the version you want and click "Restore to" to recover the file. Alternatively, select "Restore" to save it to a different location.

These steps ensure you can effectively recover your Microsoft Project files, whether stored locally, on external devices, or in the cloud.

Conclusion

Losing Microsoft Project files can be frustrating, but there are several effective ways to get them back. Start by checking the Temp folder, using the Autosave feature, or looking in the Recycle Bin—these methods are often successful. Additionally, maintaining regular backups of your files is a proactive step to prevent future losses.

If none of these options work, don’t worry—there’s still hope. AOMEI FastRecovery is a reliable and user-friendly tool designed to recover lost files quickly and efficiently. It’s your go-to solution for rescuing important project files, saving you from unnecessary stress.