How to Recover Deleted OneDrive Files

If you deleted a file from OneDrive, check the OneDrive recycle bin before trying file recovery software. OneDrive deletions are often recoverable from the web recycle bin, especially if you act quickly.

Restore from the OneDrive Recycle Bin

1. Go to OneDrive on the web.
2. Open Recycle bin.
3. Select the file or folder.
4. Choose Restore.

If the file also appears in the Windows Recycle Bin, you can restore it there as well.

If Many Files Changed or Disappeared

Microsoft 365 subscribers may have additional restore options for OneDrive when many files were deleted, corrupted, or overwritten. Use this carefully because large restore actions can affect many files at once.

Check the Right Account

Many recovery failures are account problems. Confirm whether the file was in:

• personal OneDrive
• OneDrive for work or school
• a shared folder
• SharePoint
• a local Documents folder

If the File Was Shared

If someone else owned the file, your copy may have disappeared because sharing changed. Ask the owner to check the original file and share it again.

Sources

• Microsoft Support: Restore deleted files or folders in OneDrive
• Microsoft Support: Recover an earlier version of an Office file