Maybe you clicked the wrong files for removal on C drive, or maybe you erased them by intention. But either way, those files are gone now. However, you would definitely want to know whether you can get them back, and if yes, how to recover deleted files from C drive?
In this post, we’ll explain the reasons behind losing data and whether you can retrieve it. If you can, we’ll tell you how to recover deleted folder from C drive or files and under what conditions.. Let’s get into it.
Part 1: Can You Recover Deleted Files From C Drive?
Your C drive recovery is dependent on the type of file. Some files are easier to restore than others. But the method you use to retrieve them will vary. The table below summarizes what can be recovered, how, and what to watch out for:
| File Type | Can It Be Recovered? | Recommended Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Files (photos, documents, videos, etc.) | Usually yes |
|
Stop using the C drive immediately to avoid overwriting files. |
| Program Files (installed apps, games) | Usually not recoverable in a functional state | Reinstall the program from the setup files or the app store. | Even if some files are restored, the app may not work due to missing settings or registry entries |
| System Files (Windows system files) | Rarely |
|
Erased system files can cause crashes or instability, so backing up data is crucial. |
Part 2: How to Recover Recently/Permanently Deleted Files From C Drive?
Now, that you know what’s crucial for a successful C drive recovery, here’s how to recover deleted files from local disk C. Pick a method based on whether your files are recently or permanently erased:
Way 1: Check the Recycle Bin
First, glance inside the Recycle Bin on your computer. Your files may still be residing in the Bin. This is especially so when you have just erased your personal files and didn’t empty the trash, or didn’t utilize the Shift + Delete to erase them. The following is, therefore, the process of how to recover deleted data from C drive by visiting the Recycle Bin:
Step 1: Open the Recycle Bin. Then, view the files residing there.
Step 2: Select the erased files you want to reclaim. Right-click. Pick “Restore.”
Way 2: Use a Free Data Recovery Tool
If you’ve employed “Shift+Delete” to erase files, and are now wondering how to recover permanently deleted files from C drive, utilize a specialized free data recovery tool. The 4DDiG Data Recovery is a free app that allows you to selectively retrieve permanently erased personal files like photos, videos, audio, documents, etc, with high success. It supports up to 2GB of free recovery from numerous data loss scenarios. Here’s more to know about this tool:
- This tool can retrieve 2000+ file formats you’ve intentionally or unintentionally erased.
- The app supports C drive recovery from system crashes, missing partitions, and boot failures.
- This software allows you to preview recovered files by their path and type.
- No technical knowledge required.
Here’s how to recover permanently deleted files from C drive with this file retrieval tool:
Step 1: Open the tool on your computer. Then, select the C drive location where your files were removed. Pick the file types for selective recovery. Then, hit “Scan Selected File Types.”
Step 2: Pause or stop scanning to preview the recovered files. Utilize tags like Type, Modified Date, etc, or place keywords in the search field to locate the exact files.
Step 3: Once you’ve reclaimed your desired files, hit “Recover.” Choose a secure place on your computer to export the files or send them to your cloud drive. That’s how to recover deleted data from C drive.
Way 3: Employ File History
In a scenario where you’ve activated the Windows-embedded File History feature on your PC, it will back up your Desktop, Documents, Videos, Pictures, and Music folders. Thus, if your permanently removed files were in any of these spots, there’s a good shot you can reclaim them with the File History. Here’s how to recover deleted files from C drive with File History:
Step 1: Write “con” in “Windows Search” on the Desktop. Then, execute “Control Panel.”
Step 2: Choose “System and Security.” Next, click “File History.”
Step 3: Select “Restore personal files.” After this, locate the erased files from the backup.
Step 4: Select the files. Then, tap the “Green Recycled” icon at the bottom.
Way 4: Use Backup & Restore (Windows 7)
The Backup and Restore (Windows 7) feature is another way of recovering files that have been permanently removed. It generates a copy of all your files, folders, and system image (in case you have set it on). Here’s how to recover deleted folder from C drive or files with the Backup and Restore feature:
Step 1: Write “con” in “Windows Search” on the Desktop. Then, execute “Control Panel.”
Step 2: Choose “System and Maintenance.” Execute “Backup and Restore (Windows 7).” Next, hit “Restore my files.”
Step 3: Next, click on “Browse for files.” Then, pick the erased files you wish to reclaim.
Step 4: Select a destination to restore the files, either to the original location or a new one.
Way 5: Utilize System Restore
In case you want to know how to recover deleted files from local disk C, specifically the system files, you can utilize the System Restore. It’s a Windows-embedded feature that returns system files, settings, and programs to an earlier state. But you must’ve activated it before you lost the files. Here’s how to recover permanently deleted files from C drive, specifically the system files, with System Restore:
Step 1: Step 1: Write “con” in “Windows Search” on the Desktop. Then, execute “Control Panel.”
Step 2: Tap “Open System Restore.” In the “Restore system files and settings” window, hit “Next.”
Step 3: Pick a restore point from the list that contains the files that were erased. Tap “Next.”
Step 4: Hit “Finish.” Then, tap “Yes.”Windows will reboot to restore your erased files.
Way 6: Run an SFC Scan
The System File Checker (SFC) feature is a Windows-embedded tool that can replace the erased app and system files with a functional copy. Here’s how to recover deleted data from C drive with the SFC scan:
Step 1: Input “cmd” in the Windows search on the Desktop. Then, execute “Command Prompt.”
Step 2: Type the following DISM command. Hit “Enter” afterward:
- DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
Step 3: Next, type the following SFC command. Hit “Enter” afterward:
- sfc /scannow
Way 7: Seek Help From a Professional
Are you still left pondering how to recover deleted folder from C drive or files, because the earlier-mentioned software solutions have failed? If that happens, reach out to a credible data recovery service by searching near you and checking the service reviews and case studies. They’ll have the expertise and tools to retrieve permanently erased files. Tell them about your issue, and they might be able to offer a resolution.
Part 4: Common Causes of File Loss on C Drive
You’ve learned how to recover deleted files from local disk C. But do you know what causes file loss on the C drive? There are multiple reasons you might lose data, such as:
- Erasing data without intention, formatting drives, or simply shutting down a computer abruptly may lead to file loss.
- Hard drives and SSDs may fail due to age or overheating, or be harmed due to water/fire, power bursts, or physical abuse.
- Files can be spoiled by software bugs, unsuccessful updates, or program conflicts.
- Viruses, malware, and ransomware are capable of removing, encrypting, or stealing data, usually which comes from unsafe downloads or email attachments.
- Power outages or sudden loss during file writing can damage files or the system.
Conclusion
Incidental removal, hardware or software problems, malware, power problems, theft, or disaster can cause file loss. However, the way of knowing how to recover deleted files from C drive is relative to the type and method of retrieval. Personal files, such as pictures and documents, can often be simply restored. Whereas program and system files might require such tools as System Restore, SFC, or backups. 4DDiG Data Recovery is a free and credible option to retrieve erased personal files in the C drive, especially if you don’t have a backup.
