How to recover deleted files on Mac — step by step

Mac computers and iPhones are some of the most widely used devices nowadays. Millions of people use them in everyday activities because  Apple's products are one of the most reliable on the market, known for their long life and bug-free OS. For that reason, Mac is widely preferred and used by individuals of all ages.

We store our precious information on these computers and phones, like photos, videos, documents and sensitive private information. A big part of our lives is on these devices. Unfortunately, using them carries risks related to hardware failures, accidentally deleted files, cyberthreats and natural disasters, which can lead to lost files from a Mac device.

The backbone of protecting your data and keeping it safe in case of unexpected scenarios like a cyberattack is having data recovery software capable of restoring this information in case of need. In this article, we will discuss data recovery options in emergency situations.

The answer to this question is "yes". Mac devices make no exceptions in their ability to recover lost data in all file formats. There are different options and methods to do this, and we will cover them below.

Apple has already simplified this process by designing a data recovery app for Mac called "Time Machine", which provides you with the option to recover your data. As the name suggests, this software can recover data with a blink of an eye and eliminate your concerns if unexpected events occur.

Mac Time Machine is your salvation for keeping your data recoverable no matter what happens. This type of Mac software is the backbone that keeps your data's "body" whole and fully functional.

Time Machine is designed to create incremental backups of your files that can be restored at a later point in time. It allows you to retrieve files or the whole system from an external hard drive or your Mac's internal storage in case of an unexpected event or when you are replacing your old Mac with a new one and need a data transfer solution. It works with several applications, such as Mail and iWork, making it possible to restore files and objects (emails, contacts, text documents, presentations) without leaving the application.

For backups to a network drive, Time Machine provides the option for the user to back up Mac computers over the network and supports backing up to certain network-attached storage devices or servers, depending on the version of Time Machine. The earlier versions of this software worked with a various NAS servers. still, later versions require the server to support a recent version of Apple's Filling Protocol or a recent version of the Server Message Block protocol. On the other hand, Apple's Time Machine no longer works with servers using earlier versions of SMB.

Apple's Time Capsule, introduced in 2008 and discontinued in 2018, acted as a network storage device specifically for Time Machine backups, allowing both wired and wireless backups to the Time Capsule's internal hard drive. Another critical benefit of Mac's Time Machine is that it may also be used with other external or internal storage devices. You can also recover files over a local network.

Let's say you're a network administrator who wants to recover data after a company-wide breach; you can deploy R-Studio remotely on multiple Mac computers on your enterprise network and recover files simultaneously. This tool can recover files from different hard drive formats, including Hierarchical File System Plus (HFS+) and NTFS.

How does exactly does this software work ? Time Machine can create hourly backups for the past 24 hours, daily backups for the past month, and weekly backups for everything older than a month until the device runs out of space. And when that happens, Time Machine deletes the oldest weekly backup. This software is very useful in an emergency and is a real lifesaving option. But how can you restore your Mac data from the Time Machine? We will provide a step-by-step guide to follow in order to complete the process easily.

First you must to set up the software. Are you wondering how to do it? Don't worry, we will explain it now. You have to make sure that your external hard drive is formatted to Mac OS Extended. To do so, follow the instructions here.

1. Plug your external hard drive into your computer.

2. Open "System Preferences" by clicking on the apple icon in the top left corner of your desktop.

3. Click on "Time Machine" under the heading "System."

4. Press the "Select  Disk" button and choose the drive to use from the list.

5. On the left hand side of the screen, slide the bar to "On" and make sure "Show Time Machine in menu bar" is checked.

After setting up Time Machine, the program automatically makes data backups. These include continuous hourly Time Machine backups over 24 hours. The program saves daily backups for a month and weekly backups for previous months. Once the disk is full, Time Machine automatically deletes the oldest backups to free up space.

Time Machine offers several ways for you to personalize your backups. Follow this step-by-step guide to make it easy and fast.

• Step 1. To backup immediately, click Time Machine and go to the menu, and click "Back Up Now".
• Step 2. To disable the automatic Time Machine backup, open Time Machine preferences. For macOS Sierra or later, you can deselect Back Up Automatically. In OS X El Capitan or earlier, you need to turn off Time Machine. If you choose to turn off automatic backups, you can still manually back up your Mac using "Back Up Now."
• Step 3. To terminate an in-progress backup, go to the Time Machine menu and choose "Skip This Backup" or "Stop Backing Up."
• Step 4. To review the status of a backup, go to the Time Machine menu. The icons will tell you one of three statuses: Time Machine is backing up, idle until the next automatic backup, or unable to complete the backup.
• Step 5. To customize your backup, open Time Machine preferences from the Time Machine menu, click "Options," then click + and select the items you want to exclude.

Rolling back to an APFS snapshot point requires using the Time Machine utility. Moreover, if you need to restore your Mac, you must also use macOS Recovery mode.

If you just want to recover your lost files, such as documents, photos and videos, you can roll back to a snapshot point containing the data. The steps are as follows:

• Step 1. Click the Time Machine icon at the upper right corner of your screen.
• Step 2. Select Enter Time Machine.
• Step 3. Search for the snapshot point that preserves the files you want.
• Step 4. Choose the data and click Restore.

And you are ready, it is really that simple!

To recover deleted files from Trash on Mac, click on the “Trash” icon and choose deleted files or folders, then right-click or control-click on the item. After a drop-down menu appears, click “Put Back” to restore files.

This is an easy way to restore files after accidentally deleting them. But is it possible to recover data from an emptied trash bin?

Is it possible to recover data even after the Trash Bin has been emptied on your Mac? Yes, it is possible. The key to success is immediate action after emptying the Trash Bin.

First, if you are already familiar with Time Machine and are already using it, this puts you in a good position to retrieve those files without a problem. There is a chance that the files you deleted from the Trash Bin will already be stored in one of these backups on the Time Machine, allowing you to recover them quickly. 

To have a greater chance of recovering your information, it is fundamental to minimize activity on your computer until you are ready to begin the recovery process. 

So your best chance to recover data from an emptied trash bin is using the Mac's Time Machine. If you are not finding these files on the Time Machine, there is a chance to find them on your iCloud.

Time Machine for Mac is known for its reliability and simplicity in the world of backup solutions. But how does this helpful tool actually work? Let's take a closer look behind the curtain to understand the inner processes of the Mac's Time Machine.

At its core, Time Machine works and it is based on incremental backups. When you set up Time Machine for the first time, it will perform a full backup of your Mac's entire data, creating a snapshot of your sensitive information at that current moment in time. Thus, it will complete the full backup that lays the foundation for the following incremental backups.

The software constantly monitors your files and folders for any changes, like new files that have been added recently. Time Machine starts whenever a file is added or deleted, capturing these changes and creating the latest backup.

This software executes this seamless backup process by cleverly utilizing macOS's built-in file system, the Apple Filing System (APFS) or Hierarchical File System Plus (HFS+). These file systems use advanced features such as file linking and copy-on-write technology, allowing Time Machine to efficiently track and store incremental changes without duplicating unchanged data.

Furthermore, Mac's Time Machine creates a series of snapshots, also known as "restore points," which represent different states of your system at various points in time. These snapshots serve as reference points, enabling you to revert to a specific period of time and recover lost or deleted data in case of unexpected scenarios like hardware failure, a natural disaster, or a cyber attack.

Moreover, this software uses powerful scanning algorithms to optimize storage space usage and ensure efficient data backup. It intelligently manages backup retention, automatically removing older backups to free space for new ones while maintaining a comprehensive backup history that lets you select the precise backup you need.

Time Machine also provides seamless integration on macOS, allowing you to access and recover important files easily through the built-in interface. Whether recovering a single file or restoring an entire system, Time Machine simplifies the data recovery process, providing peace of mind that your whole data will be protected and ready to be recovered whenever you need.

We already mentioned that this built-in Apple app is extremely useful for every MacOS user because it has becomes a lifesaving option in case of corrupted, lost or accidentally deleted data. This software provides some advantages that are worth mentioning:

The biggest advantage of Apple's Time Machine is its ability to recover our cherished information in case of emergency. Another fundamental aspect for every user is that it's free. You won't pay a penny for using this helpful software. When you purchase a Mac or iPhone, you will be provided with this priceless, lifesaving software.

The fact that Time Machine backup and data recovery software is extremely easy to use makes it even more beneficial to every user. There is no complex or time-consuming process for setting up the software. You just have to select a location where to store your data, and it will start automatically backing up your entire computer. As mentioned above, you can choose the backup frequency and schedule it hourly, daily, weekly or monthly. Another helpful function is the ability to turn off these automatic updates and execute this process manually. Therefore, users can find the data recovery approach that meets their needs.

With Time Machine, you can preview backed-up files before restoring them to your system. You can go back to any specific time period and see what your files and folders looked like before recovering them. This allows you to restore the version you want quickly. Finally, you will also be provided the option to restore the entire macOS to a specific healthy period in case of system corruption or another problem.

 We have already discussed the advantages of Mac's Time Machine, but let's talk about the disadvantages. One thing is for sure: this software is extremely helpful for all Mac users, but it is not perfect. Here are some disadvantages that restrict the software’s use.

This is the biggest issue related to the Time Machine because it does not provide with an option for cloud storage. This really limits every user because the external disks can quickly run out of disk space, especially for individuals who store a lot of data on their computers. If you don't upload your backup to the cloud, there's a chance you could lose all your data if something happens to your drive. On the other hand cloud storage services provide security by not relying on physical drive to store your information.

Another disadvantage is Time Machine is not as secure as cloud storage services. This is because on the cloud, your information will always be protected and available when you need it. The cloud storage service provides you with reduced dependency on physical data storage devices, and has a better security layer of protection for your data.

Unfortunately, there are some limitations to Time Machine's features and services. One of them is that you can't select a single file or folder to be recovered on your computer; you must process the whole backup, and this is a bit cumbersome when you need to restore just a single file or folder. For instance, it is not as useful as the disk drill software, where you restore just one file from your major devices.

Due to the limitations and disadvantages of the Time Machine, the need for advanced third-party file recovery software emerges. It will provide the benefits that the built-in Time Machine won't. Such data recovery programs will allow you to use cloud backup options and advanced recovery solutions, which you will be provided with as a part of a subscription.

Thus, you will be able to restore all your data or just a particular file or folder, resulting in a reduced dependency on physical storage devices. These data recovery features don't need hardware to recover deleted data. Time Machines has some limitations around this feature, so if you are searching for reliable, flexible, and useful data recovery for Mac, you must equip yourself with a third-party vendor.

One of the best data recovery and backup solutions is Acronis True Image. This unique software is all you need as a multisite organization or individual user. You are provided with the best software technology available in backup and recovery by choosing Acronis True Image. Another major advantage is the cloud services you will benefit from, including cybersecurity. Acronis True Image offers the most complete cyber protection services, able to detect and stop every known and unknown cyberthreat. Cybersecurity is one of the core strengths of Acronis, where we have been industry leaders for many years.

So if you want to provide yourself with the best data recovery software for Mac, along with robust cybersecurity tools and features, you must choose Acronis True Image. Thus, you will have peace of mind knowing that no matter what happens, you will be protected 24/7, and in case of an emergency like a hardware failure or a natural disaster, you will be able to process full data recovery. With our graphical user interface the execution of the processes will be an extremely easy and fast to complete. You are guaranteeing your business continuity and uninterrupted processes.

Losing files on your Mac can be an unpleasant and distressing experience for every user, especially when they are considered permanently deleted. However, with the advanced capabilities of Acronis True Image, you can restore those lost files and reclaim your peace of mind in every unexpected situation.

Acronis True Image is a comprehensive data protection solution designed to safeguard your digital information, understanding the value of the files for every user. Beyond its robust backup tools and features, it provides you with powerful best data recovery software and tools that are able to search records and help you retrieve permanently deleted files with ease.

Launch Acronis True Image on your Mac computer to start the recovery process. Then, go to the "Recovery" section and select the option for data recovery. The software will ask you to choose where the deleted data was stored.

Once you've selected the exact location, Acronis True Image uses its advanced scanning algorithms to thoroughly scan for traces of the deleted data. These algorithms are processing a detailed search through your Mac's hard drive, identifying any recoverable data fragments associated with the deleted files.

After scanning, the data recovery software presents you with a list of recoverable files. Preview and identify the files you want to recover, then select them and start the restoration process.

Acronis True Image utilizes industry-leading data recovery techniques and tools to retrieve permanently deleted data. Whether it's documents, photos, videos, or other file types, you can rest assured knowing that the software will try to recover your valuable and cherished data.

Furthermore, Acronis True Image offers additional features to enhance your data cybersecurity strategy. Its real-time protection features and tools safeguard your Mac files and computer against various threats, including malware, ransomware, and other cyberattacks, ensuring that your data remains secure 24/7.

Our data recovery software empowers Mac users to recover permanently deleted files effortlessly through an easy-to-manage process. With its intuitive interface and advanced data recovery tools, you can quickly retrieve lost data and resume your work with minimal disruption. Don't let accidentally deleted files haunt you any longer; harness the power of Acronis True Image to reclaim your digital assets and protect them for the future, even on iOS devices.

Acronis True Image makes it really easy to back up your Mac PC, just like it does with a Windows computer. Once you download and install the software, you can begin backing up your system in no time. What's great is that after setting up a backup and recovery plan with Acronis True Image, your backups will run automatically, following the scheduling preferences that you can adjust at any time.

Preparing and implementing an effective backup and recovery strategy is the most crucial part of any data rescue plan. In unexpected scenarios like accidental data loss or deletion, cyber attack, hardware failure, or natural disaster, storing your backups is only half the battle. The other half is being able to recover or restore all kinds of files from the recovery drive completely in case of lost or compromised data. Moreover, you have the option to preview located files and choose which ones to recover and which ones to leave out.

With Acronis True Image, restoring data is as simple as backing it up; it only requires a few clicks. Furthermore, you will be provided with cloud storage space to store your backup data and restore it whenever needed. Another critical benefit that you will be provided with is comprehensive cybersecurity protection for the stored information and also for safeguarding your computer from all kinds of cyberthreats like viruses, malware, ransomware, identity theft, and various known and unknown threats that stalk us every day while we are doing our everyday activities in the web space.

The user-friendly interface helps you easily manage your backup and recovery processes easily and without any difficulty. By choosing Acronis True Image, you are making the best decision in order to ensure reliable, fast, and secure backup and recovery software for your Mac computer. Thus, you will equip yourself with all you need in case of emergency situations like cyberthreats, natural disasters, or accidentally deleted data. Using Acronis True Image means that you will receive complete cyber protection and backup and recovery tools, ensuring that your data remains whole without a chance of losing a single file in case of unexpected events. Download Acronis True Image today and get peace of mind for your Mac data!