Easy Guide: How to Recover Overwritten Files in Windows 8 within Minutes?

Can you recover overwritten files in Windows 8?

Overwritten files, also known as replaced files, occur when new data is saved over an existing file, effectively wiping out or altering the previous content and replacing the older version. Once a file is overwritten, the original data is typically lost and cannot be easily retrieved. Some users intentionally overwrite hard drives to ensure that the space previously occupied by the file contains new information, reducing the chances of information leaks.

While recovering overwritten files presents challenges, it's not entirely impossible. Specialized data recovery software can scan for remnants of the overwritten file. Besides, maintaining regular backups of important files reduces the risk of data loss caused by accidental overwriting.

If your files have been overwritten or accidentally replaced, follow this guidance to learn how to recover overwritten files on Windows 8.

How to recover overwritten files in Windows 8

For individuals using Windows 8, 10, or 11, File History proves beneficial in restoring prior file or folder versions. Another option involves using backup drives or specialized data recovery software such as AOMEI Partition Assistant Professional to recover overwritten files.

Some methods demand preparation in advance, whereas using the powerful tool allows swift scanning and retrieval even without pre-existing backups.

Method 1. Windows 8 recover overwritten file via Previous Versions

Reverting to previous versions or using File History in Windows offers an effective way to know accidentally replaced files how to recover. This involves creating restore points that store snapshots of your system's settings at intervals, allowing access to earlier file versions if they've been replaced.

Step 1. Find the file or folder you want in File Explorer. Right-click and choose "Restore Previous Versions". Then pick the right version from the list under "Previous Versions".

Step 2. Click "Restore" to recover it to its original location.

Method 2. Recover overwritten files by Windows backup

If you're seeking to recover overwritten files in Windows 8 and have no previous versions, there's another option via the Windows backup tool, called Backup and Restore. This tool automatically saves your files in a chosen place, offering a dependable backup choice for recovering overwritten files.

Step 1. Access Control Panel, then go to System and Security, and choose Backup and Restore. Select "Restore my files".

Step 2. Click "Browse for files" to pick the backup file you want, then click Next.

Step 3. Decide on a new location or restore the file to its original spot, and select "Restore" to recover overwritten files.

Method 3. Use AOMEI FastRecovery to recover overwritten files in Windows PC

Looking to recover lost files on Windows without previous versions or Windows backup? Consider using AOMEI FastRecovery, a reliable data recovery tool. Its "Recover Data" feature can retrieve deleted files as long as they haven't been completely overwritten.

This software isn't just compatible with Windows 8; it also supports Windows 11/10/8.1/7 and Windows Server editions, and it will continue receiving updates for future Windows operating systems. It excels in handling various complex data loss situations and can recover over 200 file types. Crucially, whether you've lost data from a local drive, external hard drive, SD card, USB, or any other storage device, it can effectively assist in data recovery.

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 recovering ends.

Final words

Need to recover overwritten files in Windows 8? With the 3 easy methods, it is easy to reach the goal, especially with the help of AOMEI FastRecovery. After successfully recovering overwritten files in Windows 8, you can rely on it to maintain the clean and high performance of your device.

Removing unnecessary clutter and keep your Windows device organized by using tools like Delete Large Files, Duplicate Files Finder, and PC Cleaner. These tools help in removing redundant files, ensuring your system stays organized and optimized. Additionally, functions like OS Migration, Disk Clone, and Disk Speed Test are ideal for maintaining smooth system operations.