Restore Deleted Files on Windows

Accidentally deleted an important file? Emptied the Recycle Bin and realized you need that document back? Don’t panic. Microsoft has a free tool called Windows File Recovery that can help you get your files back—even after permanent deletion. Here’s how to use it on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

What is Windows File Recovery?

Windows File Recovery is a command-line tool from Microsoft that lets you recover deleted files from your hard drive, SSD, USB drive, or memory card. Unlike traditional recovery tools with a graphical interface, this one uses simple commands in the Windows Terminal or Command Prompt.

Step 1: Install Windows File Recovery

1. Open the Microsoft Store on your PC.
2. Search for “Windows File Recovery.”
3. Click Install to download and add the tool to your system.

Step 2: Open Windows File Recovery

• Press Win + S, type “Windows File Recovery”, and select the app.
• Alternatively, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type:
  winfr
  This will show the basic usage and options.

Step 3: Understand the Syntax

The basic command structure is:

winfr source-drive: destination-folder [/mode] [/switches]

Example:

winfr C: D:\Recovery\ /regular /n *.docx

• C: = Drive to recover from
• D:\Recovery\ = Folder to save recovered files (use a different drive than the source)
• /regular = Recovery mode (more on this below)
• /n = Filter for specific file types or names (e.g., *.jpg, report.docx)

Step 4: Pick the Right Recovery Mode

Windows File Recovery has different modes:

• Regular Mode: Use for recently deleted files on NTFS drives.
• Extensive Mode: Use for files deleted a while ago, after formatting, or if the drive is corrupted. Works on NTFS, FAT, exFAT, and ReFS drives.
• Segment and Signature Modes: Advanced options for deeper recovery.

Tip: If you’re not sure, start with /regular. If that doesn’t work, try /extensive.

Step 5: Run a Recovery Command

Scenario: You want to recover all JPG files deleted from your C: drive and save them to a folder called “Recovered” on your D: drive.

1. Create the destination folder on D: (e.g., D:\Recovered).
2. Run this command:
   winfr C: D:\Recovered\ /extensive /n *.jpg
3. Press Y to confirm.

The tool will scan and attempt to recover any deleted JPG files and save them to your D:\Recovered folder.

Step 6: Review Your Recovered Files

• Open your destination folder (e.g., D:\Recovered).
• Check the subfolders for your recovered files.
• Some files may be renamed or incomplete if they were partially overwritten.

Common Switches and Tips

• /n <filter> – Recover specific files or file types (e.g., /n *.pdf or /n report.docx).
• /y:<types> – Specify signature types for deeper recovery.
• Always recover files to a different drive than the source to avoid overwriting deleted data.
• The tool can’t recover files from cloud services (OneDrive, Google Drive) if they weren’t stored locally.

Final Thoughts

Windows File Recovery is a powerful tool—if you know how to use it. It’s not as user-friendly as graphical recovery software, but it’s effective, free, and safe for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users. For more advanced recovery, there are third-party options, but try this first—it might save your day.

Got questions about file recovery or tech issues? Leave a comment below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!