Using Windows File Recovery for Word Documents
Windows File Recovery is a Microsoft command-line app for deleted local files that cannot be restored from Recycle Bin. It is not the first step for unsaved Word documents, OneDrive files, or files stored on network shares.
Use It Only After Easier Options
Try these first:
- Word Document Recovery.
- File > Info > Manage Document > Recover Unsaved Documents.
- Recycle Bin.
- OneDrive or SharePoint version history.
- File History, if it was enabled.
If those fail and the document was deleted from a local drive, Windows File Recovery may be worth trying.
What Microsoft Says It Supports
Microsoft describes Windows File Recovery as a command-line app for deleted files from local storage devices, including internal drives, external drives, and USB devices. Microsoft also notes that recovery on cloud storage and network file shares is not supported.
Stop Using the Drive
If you want the best chance of recovery, minimize use of the computer or drive. New data can overwrite the storage area where the deleted document may still exist.
Use a Separate Recovery Destination
Recover to a different drive when possible. For example, recover from the C: drive to an external drive instead of writing recovered files back to C:.