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How to recover deleted files from USB drives without software – December 2025

Author/Source: Yoni Heisler / BGR See the full link here

Takeaway

This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to retrieve accidentally deleted files from USB drives and SD cards using the Command Prompt in Windows. It demonstrates a built-in method to recover files that might still be present on the storage device but are no longer visible.

Technical Subject Understandability

Intermediate

Analogy/Comparison

Imagine you’ve misplaced an important document somewhere on your desk, and it feels completely gone. This method is like having a special map that shows you exactly where to look for “lost” documents that are still there, just hidden under other papers, allowing you to bring them back into plain sight.

Why It Matters

Losing important files can be a nightmare, whether it’s a vital school project, crucial work documents, or irreplaceable family photos. This method matters because it offers a free and accessible way to potentially recover those files without needing to purchase expensive software or professional services, saving you stress, time, and money when data loss occurs.

Related Terms

Command Prompt, USB drive, SD card, data recovery, attrib command, hidden files, system files, read-only files.

Jargon Conversion: Command Prompt: A text-based window in Windows where you can type commands to directly control your computer. USB drive: A small, portable storage device that plugs into a computer and is used to store and transfer files. SD card: A tiny memory card often used in cameras, phones, and other devices to store pictures and other data. Data recovery: The process of getting back files that have been lost, deleted, or corrupted from a storage device. Attrib command: A specific command used in Command Prompt to change or show the properties of files, such as whether they are hidden or read-only. Hidden files: Files that are deliberately not shown in your regular file explorer to prevent accidental changes or keep the view tidy. System files: Files that are essential for your computer’s operating system to run properly. Read-only files: Files that you can look at, but cannot change or delete without first altering their properties.

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