How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files from Google Drive?
From personal to professional, in every aspect of your life, data has an important role. Losing important files can feel like an irreversible disaster, especially if they are permanently deleted. But is it really an unfixable problem? Let’s find the answer together!
Can You Recover Permanently Deleted Files?
Recovering permanently deleted files from Google Drive can be challenging, but there are certain tricks to accomplish this.
When you delete files in Google Drive, they are first moved to the Thrash folder, where they are stored for 30 days. After this time, the files are permanently deleted. However, if you’re a Google Workspace user, you have an additional 25-day recovery window during which administrators can restore deleted files even after they are removed from thrash.
How Do I Recover Permanently Deleted Files From Google Drive?
To accomplish Google Drive recover deleted files, take the following steps:
- Via Trash Folder
If it has been less than 30 days since you last deleted your files:
- Open Google Drive
- Click on the “Trash”
- Right-click on the file you desire to restore.
- Select Restore.
- Via Backup and Sync
If you are using Google’s Backup and Sync tool:
- Open the Backup and Sync application.
- Navigate to the local folder where your Google Drive files were stored (usually under C:\Users$$Your Name]\Google Drive).
- Check if the original files are still available for recovery.
- Via Google Admin Console (For Workspace Users)
If you hold a Google Workspace account:
- Sign in to the Google Admin Console.
- Go to Users and select the user whose files need recovery.
- Click on Restore Data and specify the date range for restoration.
- This method allows the recovery of files deleted within the last 25 days after being removed from the Trash.
- Contact Google Support
For individual users who have lost files permanently:
- Visit the Google Drive Help page.
- Look for a form or option that allows you to request file recovery.
Note: It is more effective if you are able to provide details about the file’s ownership.
Does Google Drive permanently Delete Files?
Yes, Google Drive can permanently delete files. When you delete a file, it first moves to the Trash folder, where it remains for 30 days. After this period, or if you manually choose to empty the Trash, the files are deleted permanently and cannot be recovered. For Google Workspace users, administrators can recover deleted files within 25 days after they have been removed from the Trash, providing a total of 55 days for potential recovery.
How Long Does Google Keep Permanently Deleted Files?
Google Drive stores deleted files in the Trash for 30 days. After this period, files are permanently deleted. For Google Workspace users, there is an additional 25-day recovery window. After this period, the files are no longer recoverable from Google’s systems.
Do Files Stay in Google Drive Forever?
No, files do not stay in Google Drive forever. When deleted, files are moved to the Trash, where they remain for 30 days. After this time, they are permanently deleted and cannot be recovered. For Google Workspace users, administrators can restore deleted files within an additional 25 days after they have been removed from the Trash.
To Sum it Up!
Losing important files can be frustrating, but Google Drive provides multiple layers of recovery options. While permanently deleted files may not be retrievable after a certain period, understanding Google Drive’s recovery mechanisms can help you act swiftly and effectively. By staying proactive with backups and understanding these tools, you can ensure your data remains safe and accessible.