When you accidentally delete important files on your PC, it can feel like everything is lost — but with the right tools, there’s hope. One such tool is Windows File Recovery, a command-line utility designed by Microsoft to help users retrieve lost files from their local storage devices. If you're using Windows 11 and wondering how to get started, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Windows File Recovery?
Windows File Recovery is a free tool from Microsoft that allows users to recover deleted files. Unlike traditional software with a graphical interface, Windows File Recovery runs through the Command Prompt. This utility is especially useful for retrieving lost data from hard drives, SSDs, USB flash drives, and memory cards.
The tool supports various recovery modes to suit different data loss scenarios, offering flexibility and efficiency when you need it most.
Supported File Systems
Windows File Recovery supports multiple file systems, including:
- NTFS – used in most modern Windows systems, ideal for recovering files deleted from internal drives.
- FAT and exFAT – commonly used in USB drives, SD cards, and other portable devices.
- ReFS – supported for Windows Server storage.
Installing Windows File Recovery
To use the tool, it must be installed from the Microsoft Store. Follow these steps:
- Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 device.
- Search for "Windows File Recovery."
- Click "Install."
After installation, you can launch the program through the Start menu or simply search "Windows File Recovery."
How to Use Windows File Recovery Windows 11
Using the tool involves entering commands in the Command Prompt. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Right-click on the Start menu and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin) to launch with administrator privileges.
Step 2: Understand the Syntax
The basic command structure is:
bash
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winfr source-drive: destination-drive: /mode /switches
- Source drive: The location where the file was deleted.
- Destination drive: The location to save recovered files (must be different from source).
- Mode: Recovery mode (Default, Segment, or Signature).
- Switches: Optional settings to customize recovery.
Example:
bash
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winfr C: D: /regular /n \Users\YourName\Documents\file.docx
This command will attempt to recover “file.docx” from the C: drive and save it to the D: drive using regular mode.
Recovery Modes Explained
Windows File Recovery offers three modes depending on your file system and how recently the data was deleted:
- Regular Mode
- Best for recently deleted files from an NTFS file system.
- Scans the Master File Table (MFT).
- Best for recently deleted files from an NTFS file system.
- Segment Mode
- Works if parts of MFT are missing.
- Looks for file segments like name, date, size, and type.
- Works if parts of MFT are missing.
- Signature Mode
- For FAT, exFAT, or ReFS systems.
- Searches for specific file types such as .jpg, .mp3, .docx, etc.
- For FAT, exFAT, or ReFS systems.
Use the appropriate mode based on the file system and severity of data loss.
Advanced Switches for Better Recovery
Windows File Recovery includes several switches that can help refine the search:
- /n – Specifies the file name or type.
- /y: – Used with Signature mode to recover specific file types.
- /r – Segment mode.
- /x – Signature mode.
You can combine switches for advanced usage, such as:
bash
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winfr C: E: /x /y:pdf /y:jpg
This command recovers .pdf and .jpg files using Signature mode from C: to E:.
Tips for Successful Recovery
- Act quickly: The longer you wait, the more likely deleted data will be overwritten.
- Avoid writing to the source drive: Install Windows File Recovery on a separate drive.
- Use the correct recovery mode: Based on how files were deleted and the file system type.
- Double-check your syntax: Incorrect commands may cause the tool not to work.
Common Use Cases
Windows File Recovery is perfect for scenarios like:
- Accidentally deleted files
- Lost data after formatting a drive
- Files corrupted or inaccessible due to system errors
With its flexibility and deep scan capabilities, it provides a reliable option for anyone using Windows 11.
Limitations of Windows File Recovery
Although powerful, the tool has some limitations:
- Command-line interface may be intimidating for beginners.
- Cannot recover files from cloud storage like OneDrive or from network drives.
- May not recover overwritten files.
Despite these, it's still a top choice for quick, on-device recovery when used correctly.
Conclusion
Whether you're a student, professional, or home user, file loss can be stressful. But with Windows File Recovery, there's a solid chance of getting your data back. Learning how to use Windows File Recovery Windows 11 isn’t complicated once you understand the syntax and modes.
By following the steps above and using the right commands, you can increase your chances of successfully recovering lost files — without having to rely on expensive third-party software. If you're using Windows 11 and want a reliable, free method for data recovery, Windows File Recovery is worth mastering.