Here are the main methods to recover deleted files from a USB drive:
- Use data recovery software:
- Download and install a reputable data recovery program like Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Recuva.
- Connect your USB drive and run a scan using the software.
- Preview and select the files you want to recover.
- Save the recovered files to a different location (not back to the USB drive).
- Check the Recycle Bin:
- If you deleted files from the USB drive while it was connected, they may be in the Recycle Bin.
- Open the Recycle Bin and look for the deleted USB files.
- Right-click and select “Restore” to recover them.
- Use Windows File Recovery:
- For Windows 10 version 2004 and later.
- Open Windows File Recovery and run a scan on the USB drive.
- Select files to recover and choose a destination.
- Try Command Prompt:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type “chkdsk X: /f” (replace X with USB drive letter) and press Enter.
- Type “ATTRIB -H -R -S /S /D X:.” and press Enter.
- Check for recovered files in a new folder on the USB drive.
- Restore from a backup:
- If you have a backup of the USB drive, restore the deleted files from there.
Important tips:
- Stop using the USB drive immediately after file deletion to prevent overwriting.
- Don’t save recovered files back to the same USB drive.
- Consider professional data recovery services for critical files if software methods fail.
Remember that successful recovery depends on factors like how long ago files were deleted and if the drive has been used since. Acting quickly improves chances of recovery