How to Restore Files with Windows File History
File History can restore previous versions of personal files if it was enabled before the file was lost or changed. It is useful for documents, pictures, videos, and other personal folders backed up to an external drive or network location.
What File History Does
Microsoft describes File History as a Windows feature that saves copies of personal files to an external drive or network location. If a file is deleted, damaged, or accidentally modified, you can browse earlier versions and restore one.
Before You Start
File History only helps if it was already set up. If it was not enabled before the file disappeared, use other recovery options such as Recycle Bin, OneDrive version history, or Windows File Recovery.
Basic Restore Flow
- Connect the backup drive if you use one.
- Open File History from Windows settings or search.
- Browse to the folder that contained the file.
- Select the version from before the problem.
- Restore the file or save it as a separate copy.
Restore a Copy First
If you are not sure which version is correct, avoid overwriting the current file. Restore to a different location or save a separate copy, then compare the contents.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Backup and restore with File History
- Microsoft Support: Backup, restore, and recovery in Windows