Every computer or mobile user eventually faces the same issue: deleting a file by mistake. This guide explains how to recover deleted files across Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac with straightforward steps.
Windows
For Windows 10 and other recent Windows versions, Microsoft offers a built in recovery tool called Windows File Recovery. It is free to use. After installing or launching it, users follow a simple command scheme: Winfr source volume target volume /mode /filters.
The sequence starts by selecting the drive where the file or folder was deleted, then choosing the destination drive where the recovered item should appear, and finally applying any filters to narrow the search.
Windows File Recovery supports two modes: normal and extensive. Normal recovers items deleted within a few days, while extensive attempts to recover older data. To switch modes, use /regular or /extensive respectively.
Filters help target the search, for example by specifying a filename or a file type such as JPEG with the /n parameter, then the name or format and whether the item is inside a folder.
Example: to recover a deleted photo of a dog on C drive and save it to D drive, the command would resemble Winfr C: D:/tidy /n dog.jpg.
Mac
Mac users have two straight paths to recover deleted files. The simplest is to check the Trash and restore the item by right‑clicking or dragging it back to a new location from the Trash bar.
If the file isn’t in the Trash, Time Machine provides a second option. This built in backup utility lets users restore files from previous backups.
Start by selecting the backup disk, then choose the destination for the restored copies. Enable automatic backups to keep the feature ready for future restores.
When a file is accidentally deleted on Mac, open Time Machine, locate the item, and click Restore to return it to its original folder.
Android
Android users can recover deleted files using two main approaches: rooted or unrooted devices. Rooting grants elevated access to modify system features, which can simplify recovery.
With root access, the Disc Digger app is a common option. After installing, grant the necessary permissions and select the directory to scan using the search tool.
Next, specify the file types you want to recover. The app then scans and, if successful, allows saving the recovered items back to the device.
If root access isn’t available, third party software that runs on a computer is often recommended, such as Recuva. Install the program, connect the Android device via USB, and open Recuva. Choose the file type, then select the Android device as the target location. Enable Deep Scan if offered, run the scan, and save the recovered files to the computer.
iOS
iPhone and iPad users can recover accidentally deleted files in a couple of reliable ways. For photos, the quickest route is within the Photos app by opening the Deleted tab.
Photos deleted in the last 30 days are stored there before permanent removal. In this tab, locate the desired image and tap Recover to restore it to its original folder.
Another solid option for all file types is to rely on iCloud backups. To verify the backup setting, go to Settings, tap the user name, then iCloud, and select iCloud Backup. If backups are enabled, visit icloud.com, click Restore Files, and choose the item to recover.