Windows Backups

Restore files from File History

Get a file back from File History when delete or overwrite was a mistake.

8 min read Beginner Updated 9 Jun 2026

Step-by-step guide

Work through each section in order. Stop when your issue is resolved — you do not need every step for every situation.

Warning

Use an administrator account for these steps, and keep a recent backup before making repair or security changes.

What you will achieve

Get a file back from File History when delete or overwrite was a mistake.

1) Open restore interface

  1. Open Control Panel → File History.
  2. Select Restore personal files.

2) Recover previous version

  1. Browse folders and timeline arrows to pick date/version.
  2. Use green restore button to original location, or right-click for restore to a different folder.

3) Verify recovered file

Open the file and check content/date before deleting the newer broken copy.

Related guides

file history restore