How to Recover Deleted Files from Google Drive: A Complete Guide

By Motiur Rahman Why 0 Comments

Google Drive is a powerful cloud storage platform that lets you store and access files from anywhere. However, accidentally deleting important files can be a nightmare. If you’re wondering how to recover deleted files from Google Drive, don’t worry — this article will walk you through several proven methods to get your files back.

Table of Contents

1. Recover Deleted Files from Google Drive Trash

When you delete a file in Google Drive, it doesn’t vanish immediately. Instead, it goes to the Trash (or Bin), where it stays for 30 days before permanent deletion.

Steps to Restore Files from Trash:

Go to Google Drive and sign in to your account.
From the left-hand menu, click on Trash.
Locate the file you want to recover.
Right-click on the file and select Restore.

Note: Files in the Trash are permanently deleted after 30 days.

2. Recover Permanently Deleted Files Using Google Support

If your file has been permanently deleted (i.e., not in the Trash anymore), you may still have a chance to recover it by contacting Google Support.

Steps:

Visit the Google Drive Help Center.
Click on “Contact Us” at the bottom of the page.
Explain your issue and request file recovery assistance.

Google Support may be able to recover your files within 25 days of permanent deletion, especially if you are a Google Workspace user.

3. Check Shared Drives or Shared with Me Folder

Sometimes, you might think a file is deleted when it’s just moved or shared differently. Check the following:

Shared with me: Files others shared with you may still exist here.
Shared Drives: For Google Workspace users, check Shared Drives if you were working on a team project.

4. Recover Files Using Google Drive Activity Panel

The Activity panel lets you track recent changes, deletions, or file movements.

How to Access the Activity Panel:

Open Google Drive.
Click the “i” icon in the top-right corner to open the Activity pane.
Browse through recent activity to find deleted or moved files.

5. Restore Files on Google Drive Mobile App

If you’re using the Google Drive app on Android or iOS, follow these steps:

Open the Drive app.
Tap the Menu (three horizontal lines) and go to Trash.
Select the file and tap Restore.

Tips to Prevent Accidental File Deletion

Enable file versioning or backup with Google Workspace tools.
Use “View only” permissions for shared documents to avoid edits or deletions.
Regularly back up your files using Google Takeout or third-party backup tools.

FAQs

Q1. Can I recover files after 30 days?

A: If the file has been permanently deleted after 30 days, it’s usually unrecoverable. However, Google Workspace users can try contacting Google Support.

Q2. What if someone else deleted the shared file?

A: If the owner deleted the file, it may no longer be accessible to collaborators. Ask the file owner to restore it from their Trash.

Q3. Are there any third-party apps for recovering Google Drive files?

A: Most third-party apps cannot recover Google Drive files once permanently deleted due to cloud storage restrictions. Use Google’s built-in tools and support.

Q4. Can I recover files deleted from a Shared Drive?

A: Yes, Shared Drive files can often be recovered by Drive administrators within 25–30 days.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how to recover deleted files from Google Drive is essential to avoid data loss. Whether it’s using the Trash, contacting support, or checking shared folders, multiple options can help you get your important files back. Always back up important documents and use caution before deleting any files from Google Drive.

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