How to recover lost files from WhatsApp - briefly?
To recover lost files from WhatsApp, you can use backup services provided by the app or third-party software solutions designed for data recovery. Regularly backing up your chats and media ensures that you have a recent version to restore in case of loss.
How to recover lost files from WhatsApp - in detail?
Recovering lost files from WhatsApp can be a daunting task, but with the right methods and tools, it is possible to retrieve your valuable data. Here are detailed steps to guide you through the process:
Backup Recovery
WhatsApp provides an in-built backup feature that saves your chats, photos, and videos to Google Drive or iCloud, depending on whether you're using an Android or iOS device. To recover lost files from a backup:
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: First, uninstall WhatsApp from your device. Then, reinstall it from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store (for iOS).
- Verify Your Number: During the setup process, verify your phone number. WhatsApp will automatically look for backups associated with that number.
- Restore Backup: Once the backup is detected, you'll be prompted to restore it. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restoration process. Note that this will overwrite any existing data on your device.
Using Third-Party Software
If you don’t have a recent backup or if the backup is corrupted, using third-party software can be an effective solution. These tools are specifically designed to recover deleted WhatsApp files from both internal storage and SD cards. Here's how to use them:
- Download and Install: Choose a reputable recovery tool like Dr.Fone, EaseUS MobiSaver, or Tenorshare UltData. Download and install the software on your computer.
- Connect Your Device: Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable. For iOS devices, you may need to use iTunes backup files.
- Scan for Lost Files: Launch the recovery tool and follow the prompts to scan your device for lost WhatsApp files. This process can take some time depending on the amount of data stored on your device.
- Preview and Recover: Once the scan is complete, you’ll be able to preview the recovered files. Select the files you want to retrieve and click on the “Recover” button. Choose a destination folder on your computer where you want to save the recovered files.
Cloud Backup Restoration
If you have enabled cloud backup in WhatsApp, you can restore your lost files directly from Google Drive or iCloud:
- Uninstall and Reinstall WhatsApp: Uninstall WhatsApp from your device and then reinstall it.
- Verify Your Number: During the setup process, verify your phone number.
- Restore from Cloud Backup: When prompted to restore a backup, choose the option to restore from Google Drive (for Android) or iCloud (for iOS). Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restoration process.
Important Tips
- Regular Backups: Ensure that you regularly back up your WhatsApp data to avoid data loss.
- Avoid Overwriting Data: Be cautious when reinstalling WhatsApp, as this can overwrite existing data on your device.
- Use Reliable Tools: Opt for trusted and reliable third-party software to ensure the safety and integrity of your recovered files.
By following these detailed steps, you should be able to recover lost files from WhatsApp effectively.