How to Recover Deleted Files on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide
In today’s digital age, data loss can be a common occurrence, especially on Mac computers. Whether you’ve accidentally deleted important files or encountered a system crash, the thought of losing valuable data can be daunting. However, there are several effective methods to recover deleted files on Mac. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to recover deleted files on Mac, ensuring that your precious data is not lost forever.
1. Check the Trash
The first and simplest step to recover deleted files on Mac is to check the Trash. When you delete a file, it is moved to the Trash instead of being permanently deleted. To recover a file from the Trash, follow these steps:
1. Open the Trash by clicking on its icon on the Dock.
2. Locate the file you want to recover.
3. Right-click on the file and select “Put Back” to restore it to its original location.
2. Use the “Recently Deleted” Folder
If you have emptied the Trash or the file was deleted before macOS Catalina, you can try the “Recently Deleted” folder. This folder stores deleted files for a certain period, allowing you to recover them easily. To access the “Recently Deleted” folder:
1. Open Finder and click on “Recently Deleted” in the sidebar.
2. Find the file you want to recover.
3. Right-click on the file and select “Put Back” to restore it.
3. Utilize Third-Party Data Recovery Software
If the above methods do not work or you need to recover more complex data, you can turn to third-party data recovery software. These tools are designed to scan your Mac’s storage and recover deleted files, even if they have been emptied from the Trash or “Recently Deleted” folder. Here are some popular data recovery software options for Mac:
– CCleaner
– Recoverit
– Stellar Data Recovery
To use these tools, follow these general steps:
1. Download and install the chosen data recovery software on your Mac.
2. Launch the software and select the drive or folder where the deleted files were located.
3. Start the scanning process and wait for the software to analyze your storage.
4. Once the scan is complete, browse through the recovered files and select the ones you want to restore.
5. Choose a location to save the recovered files and click “Recover” to save them to your Mac.
4. Contact a Professional Data Recovery Service
If the deleted files are critical and the above methods do not work, it may be necessary to contact a professional data recovery service. These experts have advanced tools and techniques to recover data from various scenarios, including physical damage to the storage device. Here are some reputable data recovery services for Mac:
– Kroll Ontrack
– DriveSavers
– OnTrack Data Recovery
When contacting a professional data recovery service, be prepared to provide details about the issue and the storage device. They will assess the situation and provide you with a quote for the recovery process.
In conclusion, recovering deleted files on Mac is possible with the right methods and tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of successfully recovering your valuable data. Remember to act quickly and use the appropriate method to ensure the best outcome.
