How to Recover Deleted Files on Windows & Mac: A Step-by-Step Guide

Accidentally Deleted a File? Here’s How to Get It Back

Whether it’s a work document, personal photo, or system file—losing data can feel like a disaster. Luckily, there are ways to recover deleted files on both Windows and Mac—even if you’ve emptied the Recycle Bin or Trash.

At Computer Assistance, we help clients across Oxford and the UK recover lost data every day. Here’s our expert guide.

💻 For Windows Users

✅ Method 1: Restore from Recycle Bin

1. Open the Recycle Bin.
2. Locate your deleted file.
3. Right-click and select Restore.

✅ Method 2: Use File History

1. Go to the folder where the file was located.
2. Click History from the top bar (or search “File History” in Start Menu).
3. Select the file version you want to restore and click Restore.

✅ Method 3: Use Free Recovery Software

• Recuva by CCleaner
• PhotoRec
• EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (free version recovers up to 2GB)

🍏 For macOS Users

✅ Method 1: Restore from Trash

1. Open Trash.
2. Find your file and drag it back to its original location.

✅ Method 2: Use Time Machine

1. Open the folder where the file was.
2. Click the Time Machine icon > Enter Time Machine.
3. Locate the backup version and click Restore.

✅ Method 3: Use Data Recovery Software

• Disk Drill
• Stellar Data Recovery for Mac
• PhotoRec (free)

🛠️ When DIY Recovery Fails

If recovery software doesn’t work or your hard drive is damaged, it’s best to stop using the device immediately and contact a professional.

👉 Contact our Data Recovery Experts in Oxford – We can help with hard drive failures, SSDs, USB drives, and more.

🔐 Tips to Avoid Future Data Loss

• Enable File History or Time Machine
• Backup to the cloud or an external drive
• Use professional antivirus software
• Avoid downloading suspicious files or attachments

👨‍🔧 Need Help? We’re Here!

Whether you’re a business or individual user, our Oxford-based tech support team can help you:

• Recover deleted files
• Repair damaged hard drives
• Set up automated backups

📍 Visit our Data Recovery Services Page
📞 Or call us at 01865 717088