How to Restore Deleted or Overwritten Files
Deleted the wrong file or saved over something important? In many cases you can get it back yourself in a few minutes. Start with the option that matches where the file was stored.
If you suspect ransomware (files renamed with strange extensions, a ransom note, or many files suddenly unreadable), stop here. Disconnect the computer from the network and contact us. Do not try to restore files yet.
Files in OneDrive or SharePoint
Recover a deleted file
- Go to onedrive.live.com or open OneDrive from office.com and sign in.
- Click Recycle bin in the left menu.
- Select the file or folder and click Restore.
Deleted items are kept for a limited time, so act soon.
Go back to an earlier version
- In OneDrive on the web, right-click the file.
- Choose Version history.
- Find the version from before the change, then click the three dots next to it and choose Restore (or Open file to check it first).
In Word, Excel or PowerPoint you can also use File > Info > Version History.
Files on a Windows computer
If File History or another backup is set up, Windows may be able to show earlier copies.
- Open File Explorer and go to the folder that held the file.
- Right-click the file (or the folder, if the file was deleted) and choose Properties.
- Open the Previous Versions tab. On some versions of Windows you can also right-click and choose Restore previous versions.
- Select a version by date and click the arrow next to Restore, then choose Restore To... to save it to a different place.
If the list is empty, File History is probably not turned on for that computer. Also check the Recycle Bin on the Desktop.
Files on a Mac with Time Machine
- Make sure the Time Machine backup drive is connected (or reachable on the network).
- Open a Finder window in the folder where the file used to be.
- Open Time Machine from the menu bar icon (Browse Time Machine Backups) or from Launchpad.
- Use the arrows or timeline on the right to go back to a date when the file existed.
- Select the file, press Space to preview it, then click Restore.
Also check the Trash in the Dock first. It is often the fastest fix.
Restore to a different location when you are unsure. That way you can compare the restored file with the current one before replacing anything.
When to stop and call us
- You cannot find the file in any recycle bin, version history or backup.
- You need to restore a large folder, a shared drive or a whole computer.
- The file belongs to accounting or business software with its own database.
- The backup drive makes clicking noises or is not recognized.
- Many files were affected at the same time.
Avoid saving new files to the same drive while you wait. Less activity on the drive gives a better chance of recovery.
Published on - 01-01-1970 05:30am
