Recovering Lost Backups on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve recently upgraded to a new computer running Windows 10 and are on the hunt for your previous backups, you’re not alone in feeling a bit overwhelmed. A reader reached out recently, sharing their experience of connecting old drives to a new system but being unable to locate specific backups that are crucial to them. Here’s a professional guide to help you troubleshoot and recover those important files.

Understanding Backups on Different Windows Versions

The first thing to consider is how backup files are managed across different versions of Windows. While you might be familiar with the Windows 7 Backup and Restore utility, Windows 10 handles backups differently and may not recognize files created by an older version.

In the case of our fellow user, there were backups stored on two separate drives: the D drive and the G drive. While they successfully found backups from 2011-2014 and 2019-2022, backups from 2015-2017 seem to be missing. Let’s explore some steps you can take to locate those elusive files.

Steps to Locate Your Backups

1. Check Hidden Files and Folders

Sometimes, backup files might not be visible due to hidden settings. To ensure you’re not overlooking anything:

• Open File Explorer.
• Click on the “View” tab at the top.
• Check the box labeled “Hidden items.”

This option will allow you to see any files or folders that were previously hidden.

2. Search the Drives Thoroughly

Be diligent in your search:

• Use Windows Search by typing keywords related to your backup files.
• If you remember the names of specific backup files or their extensions (like .zip or .bak), search using those terms directly.

Make sure you search both the D and G drives individually.

3. Explore Backup Software

When the computer was upgraded to Windows 10, it’s feasible that the backup method changed. If you initially used third-party backup Software, check if that Software is still installed on your new computer. It may have the capability to recognize the older backup files.

4. Use File History

Windows 10 comes with a feature called File History that can help you restore previous versions of files. If File History was set up, you might be able to retrieve versions of files that existed during the time you’re searching for.

5. Seek Help in Forums

If