Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, offers amazing user interface along with several features to improve your device performance. However, sometimes you may encounter data loss issues when all your important files, including documents, pictures, videos, and other files, get deleted from Windows 11 devices.
Such issues usually occur due to accidental deletion, system errors, or other unforeseen circumstances. Whatever is the cause for your lost files on Windows 11 devices; there are always chances to find lost or missing files on Windows 11. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various Windows data recovery methods that you can apply to find lost or missing files on Windows 11.
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Why Files Get Deleted or Missing on Windows 11?
Files get deleted or go missing on Windows 11 due to multiple reasons, including accidental deletion to device-related issues. It is important to understand the exact cause of your data loss so you can take appropriate preventive measures and apply proper recovery methods. Some common reasons why files may get deleted from Windows 11 devices are as follows:
- Accidental Deletion: You may have accidentally deleted files while performing other tasks like organizing folders, cleaning up your desktop, or deleting files with the Shift + Del keys shortcut.
- Software Glitches and Clashes: System glitches, software bugs, or unexpected crashes can cause sudden deletion of files, especially when your device OS or any specific application fails to work properly.
- Corrupted Storage Devices: There may be problems with the storage medium, like a failing hard Cdrive, a corrupted SD card, or damaged external storage, which can lead to loss or corruption of files.
- Unintentional Formatting: Accidental formatting of a storage device or partition can cause the deletion of all data stored on it. To avoid such instances, it is important to create backups of your important files.
- Malware or Viruses: Malicious software, like malware or viruses, can infect a computer, and lead to data corruption, deletion, or encryption.
- System Updates: Sometimes, problems while installing the latest system updates can potentially cause the deletion of data. However, modern operating systems are designed to minimize such risks.
Quick Methods to Find Lost or Missing Files on Windows 11 Devices
Now that you are familiar with the reasons for the deletion of files on Windows 11 devices, it’s time to apply proper recovery workarounds to restore lost files. Here are some common Windows data recovery methods that you can apply to find lost or missing files on Windows 11:
Method 01: Find Missing Files Using Recycle Bin
Every file deleted on Windows devices goes to the in-built Recycle Bin folder and remains there for some specific days before being permanently deleted. Before you dive into other methods to restore lost files, you should try checking the Recycle Bin folder. If your deleted file is present in the Recycle Bin, follow the below-given steps to find them:
- Firstly, right-click on the “Recycle Bin” icon to launch the folder.
- Now from the Window that opens, locate your deleted items and select the ones you need.
- Finally, right-click and tap on the “Restore” button to save selected files back to your Windows 11 device.
Method 02: Check the Recent Folder
Along with the Recycle Bin folder, you can check the Recent folder of your device to find missing or lost files on Windows 11 devices. For this:
- Type This PC in the search box of your desktop and press Enter.
- Now type %AppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\ in the address bar and press the Enter key to open the Recent Folder.Sort the files by Date > Ascending to find the missing files on Windows 10/11 devices.
Method 03: Recover Files Using Previous Version
If your deleted file is not present in the Recycle Bin or Recent folder, then you should try checking your earlier created backups. Windows “Previous Versions” option allows you to create a backup of important files and restore them to your device. Go through the following steps to find lost or missing files on Windows 11 devices using this feature:
- Locate and open the folder from where your data was lost, right-click and select the “Properties” option.
- Click on the “Previous Versions” tab from the pop-up window.
- Choose the folder versions and tap the “Restore/Restore To…” option to get your deleted files back.
Method 04: Find Missing Files on Windows 11 via File History
Another alternative to find lost or missing files on Windows 11 devices is to use the Windows PC’s built-in backup tool – File History. This option keeps track of changes made to files and folders on your device over time. It also allows you to retrieve permanently deleted files in Windows devices, and even access items created several months ago. All you have to do is:
- Type Restore your files with File History in the search box and click the Open button.
- Now, from the File History records that appear, go through each of them using the cursor and select your lost files.
- Click the “Restore” button to save selected files back to their original location.
Method 05: Use Data Recovery Software to Find Lost/Missing Files on Windows 11
If the above methods fail to find lost or missing files on Windows 11 devices, you should try using Windows data recovery software. There are several software that offers several amazing features for easy and quick recovery of your missing files. These features include:
- You can use these software to recover files from almost all internal and external storage devices, including USB, SD cards, external devices, etc.
- Supports recovery of files deleted due to various reasons, like accidental deletion, formatting, virus attacks, etc.
- It allows you to preview the recoverable files before saving them back to your device.
Conclusion
Losing or misplacing files on Windows 11 is a common issue, but with adequate recovery methods mentioned in this comprehensive guide, you can easily find them. We have outlined various Windows recovery methods that can help you find lost or recover missing files on Windows 11. Whether utilizing features like the Recycle Bin, or built-in backup options, like File History or Previous Versions, you can get your missing files back. However, if these manual methods fail, you can try using professional Windows data recovery software like Stellar Data Recovery Standard to help you out. Just go with the outlined steps to recover lost or missing files and enjoy a smooth data recovery experience.
