Deleted File Recovery

How to Recover Missing SharePoint or OneDrive Files After a Computer Reset

WPS Content Manager Sep 29, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to recover files stored in SharePoint or synced via OneDrive that went missing after resetting their computer.

How to Recover Missing SharePoint or OneDrive Files After a Computer Reset

Product: SharePoint and OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to locate and restore cloud-synced files that disappeared following a local PC operating system reset.
Observed behavior: Files previously available in the local File Explorer synced folders are no longer visible or accessible after the computer was reset.

Before you start

Ensure you have your Microsoft 365 login credentials handy and an active internet connection so you can access the online web interfaces for SharePoint and OneDrive.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Restore Library Feature Online

The most effective way to recover lost synced files is to use the built-in library restoration tool on the SharePoint or OneDrive web platform.

Resetting a PC can sometimes trigger unintended sync deletions if the local OneDrive client was actively attempting to manage files during the reset. Restoring the entire library allows you to roll back to a specific time before the reset occurred.

Log in to the web portal

Open your web browser and sign in to the actual SharePoint site or OneDrive web interface rather than relying on the local File Explorer.

Access Settings

Click the Settings gear icon located in the top-right corner of the screen.

Initiate restoration

Select 'Restore your OneDrive' or 'Restore this library' from the dropdown menu.

Select a time frame

Choose a custom date and time from exactly before the computer reset occurred, review the activity log to ensure accuracy, and click restore.

Time Limit Warning: Act quickly, as Microsoft 365 retains deleted or changed items for a limited period, typically between 30 to 93 days depending on your administrator's settings.

Solution 2

Check the First and Second-Stage Recycle Bins

If specific files were accidentally deleted during the reset process, they might be sitting in the cloud recycle bin waiting to be recovered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my OneDrive files disappear after a PC reset?

A PC reset removes local applications and data. If the local OneDrive folder was wiped before syncing changes, or if the reset process deleted files while the client was still connected and syncing, they might appear missing locally until you resync or restore them from the cloud interface.

How long do I have to recover deleted files in SharePoint?

Generally, deleted items are kept in the SharePoint recycle bins for a total of 93 days. However, your organization's IT administrator may have customized these retention policies, so it is highly recommended to attempt recovery as soon as possible.

What if I can't find the missing files in the recycle bin or version history?

If self-service recovery options like 'Restore this library' and checking the recycle bins fail, immediately contact your Microsoft 365 or SharePoint administrator. They can check organizational backups and contact Microsoft Support on your behalf if necessary.

Migration & Recovery