How to Restore and Repair Lost or Corrupted Computer Files
Restoring deleted files and repairing corrupted data is possible if you know the right steps to take. Kurt "The CyberGuy" Knutsson explains.
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Losing or having essential computer files corrupted can be a very upsetting experience. However, there are steps you can take to restore or repair these files.
Always Back Up Your Files
The best way to protect your files from loss or corruption is to back them up regularly. You can back up your files to an external hard drive, a cloud storage service, or another device.
Restore Deleted Files from the Trash
If you accidentally delete a file, it may still be recoverable from the Trash. The Trash is a temporary holding place for deleted files. Files in the Trash are typically deleted after 30 days, but you can restore them before then by following these steps:
- On a Mac, open the Trash.
- Find the file you want to restore.
- Right-click on the file and select "Put Back."
Restore Files from a Backup
If you have a backup of your files, you can restore them from the backup. This is a good option if you have deleted or corrupted a file that is not in the Trash. To restore files from a backup, you will need to use the backup software that you used to create the backup.
Use Data Recovery Software
If you have tried to restore your files from the Trash and from a backup, but you are still unable to find them, you may need to use data recovery software. Data recovery software can scan your hard drive for deleted or corrupted files and attempt to recover them.
There are many different data recovery software programs available, so you will need to choose one that is compatible with your computer and your operating system. Some data recovery software programs offer free trials, so you can try them out before you buy them.
Conclusion
Losing or having essential computer files corrupted is a stressful experience, but there are steps you can take to restore or repair these files. By backing up your files regularly, restoring deleted files from the Trash, restoring files from a backup, and using data recovery software, you can protect your files from loss and corruption.
Here are some additional tips for protecting your computer files:
- Keep your operating system and software up to date.
- Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
- Be careful about what websites you visit and what files you download.
- Use a firewall to protect your computer from unauthorized access.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your computer files safe and secure.
