Deleted File Recovery
Deleted data usually remains on the media until it is overwritten. The outcome depends on how much has been written since — which is why stopping use of the device matters more than anything else.
When you need this
- Files deleted and recycle bin emptied
- Folders removed from a file server or shared drive
- Data removed by a sync client, script or migration
- Shift-delete on a workstation or laptop
- Deleted from a NAS share or virtual machine
What we do
Imaging first
The media is imaged so that the recovery never writes to the original.
File-system-aware recovery
NTFS, exFAT, APFS, ext4 and Btrfs metadata is used to restore original names, paths and timestamps where they survive.
Content-based recovery
Where metadata is gone, files are recovered by signature and validated for integrity.
How it works
- Step 1
Consultation and scope
We establish what failed, what has been tried, and which data matters most. This shapes a targeted plan rather than a generic one.
- Step 2
Secure imaging and diagnosis
Where possible the source media is imaged before any work, so the original is never altered. Diagnosis then determines the safest recovery method.
- Step 3
Recovery
Data is extracted from the image or source using methods matched to the failure — logical, structural or hardware-level as required.
- Step 4
Verification
Recovered data is checked for integrity and completeness, and a file list is shared so you can confirm what matters is there.
- Step 5
Secure delivery
Verified data is returned through an agreed secure method, with guidance on validation before it goes back into production.
What affects the outcome
Outcomes are never guaranteed. Every case is assessed on its own condition, and we tell you what is realistic before you commit.
- Physical condition of the media and the extent of any damage
- Whether the media has been written to, reformatted or re-initialised since the failure
- Encryption, corruption or partial overwriting of the data
- Availability of source data such as images, backups, logs or transaction records
- Attempts made before assessment (rebuilds, repair tools, repeated reboots)
AS Data Recovery
For deleted files on a healthy drive, the software recovers directly on your system — with a free trial that previews what's recoverable.
Frequently asked questions
Should I install recovery software on the affected drive?
No. Install it on a different drive, or use a bootable environment. Writing to the affected drive risks overwriting the files you want.
How long do deleted files remain recoverable?
Until their space is reused. On a busy server that may be minutes; on a rarely used drive, months.
Related services
Not sure what you're dealing with?
Describe the situation and we'll tell you what's realistic.