How to Recover Files After Deleting and Reinstalling macOS

Deleting and reinstalling macOS can be a devastating experience for users, especially when important files are lost in the process. Fortunately, there are several methods you can try to recover your files. This guide will walk you through the steps and provide tips to increase your chances of successful recovery.

1. Check Time Machine Backups

If you had Time Machine set up before reinstalling macOS, you can take advantage of its robust backup capabilities to restore your files. Here’s how:

Connect your Time Machine backup drive to your Mac. Open the Time Machine app and navigate to the date before the reinstallation. Browse and restore the files you need.

Time Machine backups are a reliable way to recover files, as long as you had set them up and the backup drive is still accessible.

2. Use Data Recovery Software

If you don’t have a Time Machine backup, third-party data recovery software can help. Some popular options include Disk Drill, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Stellar Data Recovery. These tools scan your drive for recoverable files, but the success rate depends on whether the data has been overwritten.

Disk Drill - Known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features, Disk Drill is a reliable choice for recovering files. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard - A simple yet effective software that helps you recover lost files with ease. Stellar Data Recovery - Offers advanced data recovery features and flexible pricing options.

3. Professional Data Recovery Services

If your data is critically important and you’ve tried software solutions without success, consider contacting a professional data recovery service. They can often recover data that software cannot, but this can be expensive. Ensure you understand the costs and what recovery services are provided before you begin.

4. Check iCloud Drive

If you were using iCloud Drive and had files synced, you might be able to recover some documents directly from iCloud:

Ensure you have enabled iCloud Drive on your Mac before the data was lost.

5. Look in the Trash

If you deleted the files recently and haven’t emptied the Trash, you can recover them from there. The steps are as follows:

Open the Trash from the File menu. Select the files you wish to recover and right-click to select “Put Back.”

Important Notes

To increase your chances of successful recovery:

Avoid Writing New Data: Minimize any new data written to the drive. Avoid installing new software or saving new files, as this can overwrite your deleted data. File System Types: Recovery chances can vary based on the file system. macOS typically uses APFS, which has a more complex structure than older file systems like HFS, and can affect recovery options.

While there’s no guarantee of recovery, these methods provide the best chances of retrieving lost files. Whether you opt for software solutions or professional services, it’s crucial to act quickly and follow the guidelines to maximize your chances of success.

Conclusion

Deleting and reinstalling macOS doesn't mean your data is lost forever. By utilizing these recovery methods, you can significantly increase your chances of retrieving your important files. Always remember to keep backups and be cautious when making system changes to protect your data.