| You Break It I'll Fix It |
If data is accidentally deleted or otherwise missing, one or more of the options on this page may help recover the data.
It is important not to do anything with the computer until a decision is made.
Every boot and even every keystroke potentially permanently destroys the data.
1. Always check the Recycle Bin first.
If the file is there, right click the file then click Restore.
2. Search for deleted data:
Log in to a profile with Administrator access.
Open My Computer
Click Tools
Click Folder Options
Click View tab
Check "Show hidden files and folders"
Uncheck "Hide extensions for known file types"
Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files..."
Click OK and follow prompts.
Start/Search
Click "All files and folders"
Type the name of missing file in appropriate box.
Click search.
When finished, go back and set checks to original configuration.
3. Some 3rd party tools such as PCRepair Utilities can help you recover lost data as well.