How to Recover Deleted Files from Pen Drive in Linux

Author Info

Last Updated: June 6, 2022

Recovering deleted or lost files from your pen drive or hard disk files such as video, documents, and lost pictures from digital camera memory is a snap if you follow these steps.

Method 1

Method 1 of 8:

Install the testdisk tool.

Download Article

This installs the testdisk tool.

Method 2

Method 2 of 8:

Insert your pen drive.

Download Article

This will work for any USB drive.

Method 3

Method 3 of 8:

Run the photorec utility with sudo.

Download Article

You'll need to enter your password when prompted.

Method 4

Method 4 of 8:

Choose your pen drive and press Enter.

Download Article

You'll then be prompted to choose a filesystem.

Method 5

Method 5 of 8:

Choose a filesystem and select "Search."

Download Article

Method 6

Method 6 of 8:

Choose the file system you were using.

Download Article

Method 7

Method 7 of 8:

Select a location to scan.

Download Article

Choose Whole to recover all files, not just those from unallocated space.

Method 8

Method 8 of 8:

Choose a destination folder and press "C."

Download Article

Once selected, press the C key on the keyboard. This begins the recovery process and shows the status of recovered files.

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

How much time does it take to recover?

Community Answer

It is not a matter of time, you just need to install the right software. Just be careful not to use your pen drive until you've recovered the files. Otherwise, you might overwrite the old data.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 9 Helpful 3