This can be frustrating, especially if the lost data is critical.

But dont worry; you might probably recover those files or folders.

If not, go to the next step.

iPhone 16e with iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16 Pro in hand against grey wall.

Deleted files are typically moved to the Recycle Bin, whereyou can easily restore them.

pop launch the Recycle Bin and see if the files are there.

If you find them, select all, right-click, and choose Restore.

The word Windows 11 with a map pin on the right and the default windows 11 wallpaper as background.

The restored files will automatically return to their original location.

Check the source folder and move the files to the intended destination folder.

However, if you habituallypermanentlydelete files and folders, they won’t be in the Recycle Bin.

A person looking shocked at a laptop with some deleted files.

Lucas Gouveia / How-To Geek | DC Studio /Shutterstock

In that case, youll need to explore more complex recovery options.

Therefore, there’s a good chance that your data can be recovered by the administrator.

Reach out to them and see if they can help you retrieve it.

Right-click any of the files, then hit “Restore."

Many Windows users rely on OneDrive for backups.

If you use another backup service, recover the files from there.

Additionally, check OneDrive’s Recycle Bin and restore the files if they have been deleted.

Restoring a file from OneDrive’s recycle bin.

To do that, grab the file and click “Restore.”

However, these option are only viable if you’ve created a backup.

If you havent configured OneDrive or don’t use any backup service, proceed to the next step.

Restore a previous version of a file with File History in Windows 11

Connect your drive, typeFile Historyand choose it.

Then, wait for the process to finish.

Otherwise, this option won’t be helpful.

Searching for lost data using the Disk Drill app.

I personally useDisk Drillfor data recovery, but you could choose any other reliable option.

Keep in mind that data recovery is more successful with HDDs.

If you use an SSD, the TRIM command may permanently erase deleted data, making recovery impossible.

Avoid using the affected drive until data recovery is complete.

To recover your data, download and install Disk Drill and initiate the software.

The tool will search for deleted files and allow you to preview them.

However, before giving up hope, you’re able to try a few things.

Think about whether youve shared this data with anyone via email or a cloud storage service.

If someone else shared that data with you, ask if they still have a copy on their PC.

Hopefully, one of these scenarios applies to you, allowing you to recover your data.

Losing essential data while moving can be frustrating.

To prevent this from happening again, verify tocreate and regularly maintain backupsto protect your data.