Recover deleted files step by step with DiskInternals NTFS Recovery

Last update: 09/10/2025
Author Isaac
  • Most files deleted in NTFS They can be restored if they have not been overwritten, so stopping use of the drive is key.
  • Windows offers quick paths (Trash, Previous Versions, Copies) before moving on to specialized utilities.
  • DiskInternals tools combine simple wizards with in-depth analysis to recover files and partitions.

NTFS File Recovery

Losing documents, photos, or projects due to accidental deletion can leave you with a heavy heart, but in most scenarios information does not disappear immediately And it's still possible to rescue it if you act sensibly and without rushing. Below you'll find a complete guide in Spanish, with native Windows methods and a step-by-step guide using DiskInternals utilities. recover NTFS files and partitions in a safe way.

Before you begin, it's a good idea to follow two golden rules: avoid further use of the affected drive, and if you're going to install recovery software, always do it on a different disk who lost the data. With these precautions you increase the chances of success and minimize the risk of overwriting, something crucial when it comes to data recovery.

What is NTFS and why files and partitions can be recovered?

NTFS (New Technology File System) is the modern Windows file system that organizes and locates information very efficiently; each item has a record in the MFT (Master File Table), which facilitates metadata management and, where necessary, NTFS file recovery. When you delete a file or even a partition, the contents are usually not erased instantly: the space is marked as available for new data and, until it is overwritten, that content can be reconstructed.

This explains why it is important to act quickly, not forma tear lightly and avoid copying anything to the affected drive. In the case of deleted or damaged partitions, specialized tools can reconstruct the structure of the volume and restore access to your folders if the surface of the disc remains intact.

What is NTFS and data recovery

Common reasons for data loss include human error (unintentional formatting or deletion), logical file system failures, virus infections, malware, sudden shutdowns, and also physical incidents. In all these cases, if the space has not been overwritten, there is room for recovering information with specialized software or, if there is physical damage, by turning to professionals.

HDD vs SSD: What Changes When Recovering Data

There is a belief that the data of a SSD or a damaged HDD cannot be recovered, but experience shows that in logical failures and accidental deletions, recovery software can do a great job on both types of drive. When the problem is physical (shocks, unreadable sectors due to wear, etc.), it is best to stop using the device and consult a technical service specialized.

On the software side, you'll notice a wider variety of solutions focused on traditional hard drives; however, for common user issues (deletion, inaccessible volume, quick formats) Modern utilities thoroughly scan SSD and HDD and allow you to preview and restore a large number of file types.

In any case, if you suspect a failure of hardware (noises, reading freezes, abnormal temperature), turn off your PC as soon as possible. Continuing to force readings can worsen the damage and reduce the chances of an effective recovery.

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Native Windows Methods to Recover Deleted Files

Before moving on to third-party tools, Windows offers options that are worth reviewing. They don't require installation and, if you're lucky, they allow you to restore files in seconds.

1) Recycle Bin

If you delete from Explorer without emptying the Trash, just open it, locate the item, right-click it, and click Restore. It's easy to overlook this in the heat of the moment, but it can save you a thorough scan and instantly recover your documents.

2) Previous versions (Windows 7)

Windows 7 Adds "Previous Versions" for folders and files if restore points or backups have been created. Navigate to the folder where the lost file was located, right-click > Restore previous versions, choose a suitable date and press Restore. With this feature, You can retrieve content from a previous snapshot without the need for additional software.

3) Previous Versions and File History (Windows 8/8.1/10)

In Windows 10 (and 8/8.1), open the folder where the file was stored and click the File History button. You can browse through previous snapshots using the controls (Previous/Next) and recover what you need. If you enable this feature with an external drive, you automate incremental copies that make life easier when something is deleted or corrupted.

4) Restore from backup

If you use backups with “Backup and Restore”, connect the storage drive backup and go to Control Panel > System and Maintenance > Backup and Restore. Then, click “Restore my files” and follow the wizard. This feature is very useful when you need to recover entire folders without going through lengthy scanning processes.

Recovery with DiskInternals step by step

DiskInternals offers several utilities designed as easy-to-understand, step-by-step wizards for users of all skill levels. With them, you can restore individual files, folders, and even files from your computer. rebuild lost partitions in different file systems.

Partition recovery It's focused on recovering partitions and their data. When you run it, open the "Wizard" and select "Partition Recovery Wizard." Choose the physical disk under "Physical Drives" and decide whether you prefer automatic mode (recommended for most users) or manual mode (with more control for advanced users). The program search for deleted or damaged partitions along the disk and, if it finds them, it lets you select which one to restore to continue the process.

The software analyzes sector by sector for recoverable data structures and signatures, presenting what can be reconstructed. Once it's finished, you'll see the items found and can copy them to a secure location of your choice. Remember that you should not save on the same drive from which you recover to avoid overwrites.

Additionally, DiskInternals includes a “Recovery” mode that rebuilds the file system when necessary, as well as other modes such as “Reader” or “Uneraser” depending on the scenario. The file system is usually detected automatically, although you can always check and adjust it if you consider it necessary to improve scanning accuracy.

Uneraser It's the tool for "undeleting" files. It works through a wizard that guides you through every step: open the program, select the folder or drive you want to scan, and choose the type of files you want to look for (you can select all). It has two levels of analysis: a quick search for recently deleted items, and a "deep scan" that scans the drive in detail to find older files.

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The found files are listed, and you'll see that the deleted ones appear with a small red cross in the corner, which helps distinguish them. You can preview them by right-clicking > "Preview in new window" or using the shortcut "Ctrl + P" to make sure you recover the correct files. Once you have your selection, click "Recover," choose a destination on another drive, and let the program do the rest. dump data safelyThe trial version allows scanning and previewing; to save files to your PC, you'll need to activate the license.

Recovery with DiskInternals step by step

Among its strengths, DiskInternals analyzes each sector in depth, shows everything that can be restored, and works with multiple file systems. Thanks to its wizards, it's easy even if you have no previous experience, and if in doubt, you can always repeat the process on other volumes to compare results.

Other ways and repair of NTFS partitions

In addition to Windows and DiskInternals utilities, there are useful alternatives and procedures for solving logical and rescue data from NTFS partitions that do not mount or have remained in RAW state.

Commands in Windows: CHKDSK and ATTRIB

When the problem is logical (file table errors, corrupt entries), you can start a symbol of the system with administrator privileges and use CHKDSK to detect and correct faults. After opening CMD, run a check with automatic correction:

Important tip: If Windows asks you to schedule the scan for restart, accept and let it finish. CHKDSK will help repair structures, and hopefully, you'll be able to access your data again.

chkdsk X: /f

To recover hidden files or files with system attributes that are not visible, in the same console you can use ATTRIB specifying the drive letter. This command removes the hidden, read-only, and system attributes recursively, making it easier for files that “do not appear” to appear again:

X:>attrib -h -r -s /s /d *.*

Assign a letter to the partition

Sometimes the partition is healthy, but it hasn't been assigned a letter, and that's why it doesn't appear in Explorer. With DISKPART you can assign it from CMD (Administrator) and regain visibility in a few seconds:

diskpart
list disk
select disk N
list volume
select volume M
assign letter=Z

After exiting the console, check Explorer to see if you can now access the volume normally; if it opens, you're good to go. copy your files safely.

TestDisk for partition recovery

When it displays the recoverable partitions, select the correct one and write the changes to save the new structure. Restart your PC and check if you can now access your data normally.

AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery

Another professional option is AOMEI Partition Assistant for Recovery. Its recommended flow is very clear: stop using the affected drive, install the program on a different disk, choose the partition or disk to analyze, scan to locate lost files, mark what you need and recover it to another location. Its user-friendly interface allows you to preview before restoring, and works with HDDs, SSDs, USB and memory cards in a wide range of windows versions.

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Recover Data Recovery

RAW Partition to NTFS

If a volume appears as RAW, first try to recover the files with a recovery tool. Once safe, you can format it to NTFS from This PC (right-click > Format > NTFS). This way, it will be operational again without any corruption, and you will have preserved your data. the essential data.

Supported file systems and essential glossary

Modern recovery tools work with a wide variety of file systems. Understanding them helps you choose the right strategy and understand what's going on under the hood when you scan a disk.

  • NTFS: Advanced file system for Windows NT and successors, with high performance and journaling.
  • Refs: modern Microsoft alternative with fault tolerance and focus on integrity; useful in environments where la reliability before purchasing,.
  • FAT12/16/32 and VFAT: very popular classics on removable drives; great compatibility with multiple versions of Windows.
  • exFAT: Designed for flash drives with large files, ideal for exchange between teams.
  • Ext2/Ext3/Ext4: family Linux; Ext3 and Ext4 incorporate journaling, while Ext2 is still used in certain flash media.
  • HFS / HFS +: Apple systems for Mac in generations prior to APFS; very common in older macOS computers.
  • APFS: Apple's modern operating system for macOS 10.13 and higher, successor to HFS+, with improvements performance and safety.
  • XFS: 64-bit system with high scalability and performance, present since the 90s in Linux environments.
  • ZFS: 128 bits, integrates logical volume manager and replication, highly valued for its robustness and scalability.
  • ReiserFS/Reiser4: journaling options for Linux with performance features and size flexibility.
  • RomFS: simple read-only system, useful for embedded scenarios.
  • Forensic Disk Images (EnCase, ProDiscover): formats and tools oriented to forensic investigation to collect, analyze and document evidence.

Tips to avoid going through the same thing again

After recovering your data, it's worth reinforcing your habits. Activate File History with an external drive, keep regular backups, and when manipulating partitions, make sure you have a recent backupAvoid installing recovery software on the affected drive, use a UPS to prevent power outages, and keep your system malware-free.

If something fails again, remember: stop using the drive, diagnose the type of incident (logical vs. physical), try the native Windows options first, and if they are not enough, turn to specialized tools such as DiskInternals or, in serious hardware incidents, to professional services. increase your chances of success.

With a little method and the right tools, most deletion losses or logical corruption can be reversed: Windows gives you quick options (Recycle Bin, Previous Versions, Copies), and solutions like DiskInternals' Partition Recovery and Uneraser, along with proven alternatives, cover everything from simple unerasing to partition reconstruction; all with the same premise: Act quickly, do not overwrite, and save the recovered items to another drive..

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