Deleted File Recovery

How to Recover Deleted OneDrive Files After OneNote Sync Issues

Huma Ashraf Ch Sep 28, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to recover OneDrive files that disappeared following OneNote synchronization problems or account subscription changes.

How to Recover Deleted OneDrive Files After OneNote Sync Issues

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Encountering missing files after a OneNote synchronization failure or change in Microsoft 365 subscription access.
Observed behavior: OneDrive files appear to be deleted or missing from the user's account.

Before you start

Ensure you are logged into the correct Microsoft account associated with your missing OneDrive files and have a stable internet connection before attempting recovery.

Solution 1Recommended

Restore Files from the OneDrive Recycle Bin

The easiest and most common way to recover missing files is by checking the OneDrive Recycle Bin, where deleted files are kept for up to 30 days.

When sync issues occur, files are often moved to the recycle bin rather than being permanently deleted. Checking here should always be your first step.

Log into OneDrive

Go to the OneDrive website in your browser and sign in with your Microsoft account.

Access the Recycle Bin

In the navigation pane on the left side, click on 'Recycle bin'.

Restore your files

Select the files or folders you want to recover by pointing to each item and clicking the circle check box that appears, then click 'Restore' at the top of the page.

Restore Files from the OneDrive Recycle Bin

Retention Period: For personal Microsoft accounts, items in the recycle bin are automatically deleted after 30 days.

Solution 2

Use the Restore Your OneDrive Feature

If you have a Microsoft 365 subscription, you can roll back your entire OneDrive to a previous state before the synchronization issue occurred.

Solution 3

Contact Microsoft Support for Data Recovery

If the files are not in the Recycle Bin and you cannot use the restore feature, reaching out to Microsoft Support is your final option.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Experience Stable Cloud Synchronization with WPS Office

If you frequently encounter synchronization errors and file loss with Microsoft Office, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, free alternative with built-in, reliable WPS Cloud storage, ensuring your documents are safely synced across all devices without hassle.

1. Download the installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
2. Install the software: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up WPS Office on your device.
3. Sign in for Cloud sync: Create or log into a WPS account to automatically enable stable cloud synchronization for all your files.

Built-in reliable WPS Cloud for seamless document synchronizationFully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formatsLightweight application that prevents heavy background sync freezesFree to download and use with a highly familiar user interface

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do files stay in the OneDrive Recycle Bin?

Files are typically kept in the Recycle Bin for 30 days for personal Microsoft accounts, and 93 days for work or school accounts before being permanently deleted.

Why did my OneDrive files disappear after a OneNote sync?

Sync conflicts, changes in storage limits, expired Microsoft 365 subscriptions, or signing into a different Microsoft account can cause files to temporarily hide or be moved to the recycle bin.

Can I use the 'Restore your OneDrive' feature without a Microsoft 365 subscription?

No, the 'Restore your OneDrive' feature is exclusive to paid Microsoft 365 subscribers. Free users can only rely on the Recycle Bin or local PC backups for recovery.