How to Recover Deleted Files from Google Drive

Google Drive is a powerful cloud storage service that helps users manage and share files easily. However, like any cloud storage service, it's crucial to know what to do when you accidentally delete a file. Luckily, you can still recover these deleted files using various methods. In this guide, we will explore how to retrieve files from the Google Drive Trash and other recovery options available.

Steps to Recover Files from the Google Drive Trash

Using Google Drive on the Web

Open a web browser and sign in to your Google Drive account.

Navigate to the left sidebar and click on 'Google Drive.'

Look for the 'Trash' section and open it to view the deleted files.

Select the file you wish to recover.

Click on 'Restore' to bring the file back to your Google Drive in its original location.

If the file is missing from the Trash, it may have been permanently erased. In such cases, consider exploring other backup options or contacting Google Support for assistance.

Recovering Missed Deletions

There are other scenarios where a file might disappear from your Google Drive. Here are some steps to try:

1. Check Activity Log

Go to Google Drive and choose 'My Drive.'

Click on the 'Info' icon in the top right corner.

Within 'Activity,' search for the information of the missing file.

2. Advanced Search

If the file was created by someone else, they may have deleted or renamed it. In such cases, try searching for files created by you in deleted folders using an advanced search:

Navigate to Google Drive and use the search bar to search within deletion history.

Other Recovery Options

For files that were permanently deleted from the Trash and can't be recovered through the above methods, you can still consider the following options:

1. Ask an Administrator for Assistance

If your Google account is associated with a company, school, or group, you can ask an administrator to recover the deleted files. The administrator can restore files that were deleted within 25 days:

Login to Gmail and go to the Management Settings.

Select the user and double-click to open the user profile.

Click the 'Menu' icon in the top right corner.

Choose 'Restore Data,' then select the file to restore.

2. Contact Google Drive Support

If your files are missing from Google Drive for an unknown reason and the folders have suddenly become empty, you can contact the Google Drive Support team:

Contact the support team to recover missing or deleted files, especially if they were deleted within the past 25 days.

Refer to the official guide for more details.

Conclusion

While sometimes it might seem impossible to retrieve a deleted file from Google Drive, using these methods can significantly increase your chances of recovery. Whether you're looking to recover a file from the Trash or need help from an administrator or support team, follow the steps outlined in this guide to maximize your chances of getting your missing files back.