Losing an app can be frustrating, especially if it’s one you rely on daily. Thankfully, Windows 10 provides various ways to restore deleted apps, whether you accidentally uninstalled them or they vanished mysteriously. This guide will walk you through the different methods and help you get your favorite apps back in no time.
Understanding App Removal in Windows 10
Before diving into recovery methods, it’s essential to understand how Windows 10 handles app removal. Unlike traditional desktop programs, apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store are handled differently. When you “uninstall” a Store app, you’re essentially removing its data and files, including settings and preferences. This process can be reversed in most cases.
However, uninstalling apps from other sources, such as third-party websites or installers, might not be as simple. These apps usually install files directly on your system, and their removal might require specific procedures.
Method 1: Using the Microsoft Store
The Microsoft Store is the most straightforward way to recover deleted apps. Here’s how:
- Open the Microsoft Store: Click the Microsoft Store icon on your taskbar or search for “Microsoft Store” in the Start Menu.
- Search for the app: In the search bar, type the name of the app you want to restore.
- Check for the “Install” button: If the app is available, you’ll see an “Install” button. Click it to begin the installation process.
- Wait for installation: The app will download and install, and you’ll soon find it in your Start Menu or Apps list.
Note: This method works for apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store. If the app was installed from another source, this method won’t work.
Method 2: Checking the Recycle Bin
The Recycle Bin is the first place to look for recently deleted files, including apps. While this method is unlikely to recover entire apps, you might find leftover files that can be used to re-install the app.
- Open the Recycle Bin: Click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop or search for “Recycle Bin” in the Start Menu.
- Check for app files: Search for files related to the deleted app. This might include folders or executables with the app’s name.
- Restore the files: Right-click on the app files and choose “Restore” to move them back to their original location.
Note: This method may only partially recover the app, and you might need to reinstall it using the original installer or download it again.
Method 3: Using System Restore
System Restore is a powerful tool that can restore your computer to a previous state, potentially recovering deleted apps.
Understanding System Restore
System Restore creates snapshots of your computer’s system files and settings at specific points in time. It lets you revert to a previous state if you encounter issues, like lost apps, without losing your data.
Restoring Using System Restore
- Open System Restore: Search for “Create a restore point” in the Start Menu and click the result.
- Choose a restore point: Select the restore point that existed before you deleted the app.
- Review the restore point: System Restore will display a list of files that will be affected. Review the information and click “Next” to continue.
- Confirm the restore: A confirmation window will appear. Click “Finish” to start the restore process.
- Restart your computer: The restore process will take a few minutes. Once completed, restart your computer.
Note: System Restore might not recover all deleted apps, especially those installed from outside the Microsoft Store. Also, remember that the process will revert your computer’s state, so any changes made since the restore point will be lost.
Method 4: Using Data Recovery Software
Data recovery software is a more advanced approach that can be used to recover deleted files, including app files. These tools work by scanning your hard drive for deleted data, but they might require some technical expertise.
Using Data Recovery Software
- Download data recovery software: Many data recovery software options are available online, both free and paid. Choose a reputable software and download it.
- Install and run the software: Follow the installation instructions and run the software.
- Choose the drive to scan: Select the drive where the app was installed, typically the system drive (usually C:).
- Start the scan: The software will begin scanning the drive for deleted files.
- Locate the app files: Once the scan is complete, browse the results and locate the app files.
- Recover the files: Select the app files you want to restore and choose the recovery option.
Note: Using data recovery software requires caution as it can potentially overwrite data on your hard drive. It’s recommended to use it only as a last resort and create a backup of your important data before using it.
Method 5: Reinstalling Apps from the Original Source
If you’ve tried all the above methods and still can’t restore your app, you may need to reinstall it from its original source.
Reinstalling from the Original Source
- Locate the original installer: Check the location where you downloaded or installed the app. You might find the installer file, typically an .exe file.
- Run the installer: Double-click the installer file to run it.
- Follow installation instructions: Follow the onscreen instructions to reinstall the app.
Note: This method is only possible if you have a copy of the original installer file. If you lost it, you’ll need to download the app again from the original source.
Conclusion
Restoring deleted apps on Windows 10 can be accomplished using a variety of methods. From simple solutions like the Microsoft Store to more advanced methods like data recovery software, you have multiple options to get your favorite apps back. Remember to carefully choose the method based on your situation and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any data loss or system issues.
If you still struggle to recover your deleted apps, consider seeking help from a tech expert or referring to the official Microsoft support website for further assistance.
FAQ
1. What if I accidentally deleted an app from my Windows 10 computer?
If you accidentally deleted an app from your Windows 10 computer, there are a couple of ways you can try to restore it. First, check the “Recently Deleted” folder in the Microsoft Store app. This folder stores recently uninstalled apps for a short period, allowing you to recover them if you need to. If it’s not there, you can try reinstalling the app from the Microsoft Store. Search for the app in the store, and click “Install.” This should download and install the app back on your computer.
2. How can I recover deleted apps if I can’t find them in the “Recently Deleted” folder?
If the app you’re looking for isn’t in the “Recently Deleted” folder, it might be gone for good. However, you can still try to recover it by checking your system’s Recycle Bin. Sometimes, when you uninstall an app, its files are moved to the Recycle Bin instead of being permanently deleted. Check the Recycle Bin and see if the app’s folder is present. If you find it, right-click on it and choose “Restore.” This will put the app back in its original location.
3. Is there a way to restore apps that were removed through the “Settings” app?
Yes, you can recover apps removed through the “Settings” app. This method involves using the “Uninstall and Reinstall” option for the app. First, open the “Settings” app and navigate to “Apps.” Find the app you want to restore and click on it. Then, click the “Uninstall” button. This will remove the app from your computer. Next, go back to the “Apps” section and search for the same app again. This time, click on the “Install” button. This will reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store.
4. Can I restore apps that were pre-installed on my Windows 10 computer?
Yes, you can usually restore pre-installed apps on your Windows 10 computer. These apps are often considered “system apps” and are generally not removable. However, if you have accidentally removed a pre-installed app, you can usually reinstall it through the “Settings” app. Navigate to “Apps” and then click on “Optional features.” Here you should find a list of pre-installed apps, including the one you want to restore. Click on the app and then select “Install.”
5. How can I avoid accidentally deleting apps in the future?
To avoid accidentally deleting apps, you can use a few simple methods. First, double-check the app you’re about to remove. Make sure it’s the app you want to delete and not a similar one. Secondly, you can use the “Uninstall and Reinstall” method described in question 3, which allows you to temporarily remove the app while preserving its data. Finally, consider creating a system restore point before uninstalling any apps. This will allow you to revert back to a previous state if you make a mistake.
6. Are there any third-party tools that can help me recover deleted apps?
While there are many third-party data recovery tools available, it’s important to note that they are not always effective in recovering deleted apps. These tools typically work by scanning your hard drive for deleted files, but app files are often scattered across multiple folders and may not be easily recoverable. It’s usually more effective to try the methods described in the article, such as checking the “Recently Deleted” folder or reinstalling the app from the Microsoft Store.
7. What if I have lost all my app data after accidentally deleting an app?
Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to recover app data that has been lost after accidentally deleting an app. App data is usually stored in specific folders within the app’s installation directory, and deleting the app will also delete its data. However, there might be some options depending on the specific app. Some apps store data in cloud storage, which can be accessed after reinstalling the app. Additionally, you can try using data recovery software to scan your hard drive for deleted files, although this is not always successful.