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Since the normalization of Windows 11 back in early 2022, a constant flow of abrupt updates has followed. While it is somewhat natural for a new operating system to be updated occasionally, Windows 11 has been a bit more unpredictable than the rest. Bugs and issues, like the unapproved removal of essential files, have been quite prevalent.
Fret not as this article will provide you with multiple ways you can fix this problem. It is entirely possible to recover your lost files after a Windows update.
Exploring methods to recover your lost files after a Windows update
Although it might seem that your desired files are purged from the system, in most cases, they are still in there. You just have to recover them from the mess.
1) Try searching for the files
The files you are looking for may have been transported to another destination on your PC. You can easily search for them in the File Explorer. Press Windows key+ E on your keyboard to open File Explorer. Type the name of the file you are looking for in the top right corner of your screen.
If your desired file/folder is still on the PC, it will show its location here.
2) Windows.old folder
The Windows.old folder is created after any update to store some data from the previous version. You can use this folder to recover your lost files from the earlier version.
Go to your Local Disk (C:) drive and look for this folder. Open it and search for your desired file. If you find it, store it in a safe place.
3) Recover from a backup
Your operating system will back up files whenever you are using an external hard drive or have a wireless backup drive. This is a safe way to save your essential files before any update. You can even manually make your PC backup files if you want.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.
- You will find her all the backups that you have currently created.
- Select the backup that you want and recover your desired files from there.
You can also use One Drive to help you back up all your files.
Conclusion
These are the safest ways to get your files back on your PC. Make sure to keep backing up your files on an external drive so you don't have to worry about such mishaps. Microsoft constantly updates your operating system, and backups will keep all your files safe.
If you cannot find your desired files through the methods above, try some third-party data recovery software like Disk Drill to find your files. This software will try to find the files from the previous editions of Windows, and you might luck out.
