3 Methods for Recovering Deleted Files from USB Drives

Accidents happen, and losing crucial data from your USB drive can be a nightmare. The panic is real whether it’s due to unplugging during transfer, accidental deletion, malware, or hardware issues. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the common causes of USB data loss and provide detailed steps to recover deleted files effectively.

Understanding USB Data Loss

USB drives are prone to data loss for various reasons, such as:

1. Unplugging During Transfer: Interrupting data transfer can lead to file corruption or loss.
2. Accidental Deletion: Human errors happen, and files may be deleted unintentionally.
3. Malware Infection: Viruses can infect USB drives, causing data loss or corruption.
4. Formatted USB Drive: Formatting erases all data on the drive, leading to loss.
5. Physical Damage: Damaged USB drives may result in inaccessible or lost data.
6. Hardware Failure: Malfunctions in the USB drive’s hardware can lead to data loss.
7. Software Bug: Glitches in the operating system or file system may cause data disappearance.
8. Power Supply Issues: Insufficient or unstable power supply to USB ports can contribute to data loss.

Regardless of the cause, prompt action is crucial for successful USB data recovery.

Recovery Methods

Method 1: Restore Previous Versions Feature

The Restore Previous Versions feature, available in recent Windows versions, offers a native solution to recover deleted files without third-party tools. Follow these steps:

1. Connect the USB flash drive to your computer.
2. Open the Start menu, type “This PC,” and hit Enter.
3. Right-click on your USB drive, and select “Properties.”
4. Navigate to the “Previous Versions” tab and choose a suitable recovery option.
5. Click “Restore” to recover your deleted files.

If this method isn’t applicable, proceed to the next option.

Method 2: Windows File Recovery Build-in Tool

Microsoft introduced its data recovery application, Windows File Recovery, for Windows 10 version 2004 and higher. Though lacking a graphical interface, it’s effective. Follow these steps:

1. Download Windows File Recovery from the Microsoft Store.

2. Connect your USB flash drive and note the assigned drive letter.
3. Open Windows Terminal or CMD as an administrator.
4. Enter the command: Winfr E: C: /extensive (replace E: with your USB drive’s letter and C: with the storage device’s letter).

5. Wait for the recovery process to complete.

Method 3: Recover Deleted Files Using CMD

Utilize the built-in Command Prompt (CMD) without third-party tools:

1. Connect the USB flash drive to your computer.
2. Open the Start menu, type “cmd,” and hit Enter.
3. Type chkdsk X: /f Press Enter in the Command Prompt (replace X with your USB drive’s letter).

4. Enter ATTRIB -H -R -S /S /D X:*.* (replace X with your USB drive’s letter) and press Enter.
5. Wait for the process to finish, and you should find the recovered files in a new folder on your USB drive.

By following these methods, you increase the chances of successful USB data recovery, ensuring your valuable files are restored.

In conclusion

Understanding and addressing USB data loss is paramount in safeguarding valuable information. This comprehensive guide has outlined common reasons for data loss, ranging from unplugging during transfer to malware infections. To ensure successful USB data recovery, immediate action is crucial—stop using the drive, disconnect it, and refrain from attempting data copy. The guide details three effective recovery methods: utilizing the “Restore Previous Versions” feature, employing Microsoft’s Windows File Recovery tool, and leveraging Command Prompt (CMD). Whether you’re familiar with native Windows tools or prefer a third-party application, these methods provide reliable steps to retrieve deleted files from USB drives. Following these strategies enhances your ability to navigate and conquer the challenges of USB data loss effectively.

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