Steps to Recover Lost Files from Google Drive for Desktop!

4 min readDec 23, 2023

We were all worried when, in late November, a sync problem resulted in lost files. This problem affected desktop versions 84.0.0.0 through 84.0.4.0 on Google Drive.

For this solution, Google has provided Version 85.0.13.0 of Drive for desktops, which provides a new file recovery tool to locate and restore missing files. Although not a one-click fix, the app examines the entire drive, including files that have become out of sync due to earlier issues, and restores them from backups.

In this post, we will discuss why this happened and how our data was lost due to this issue. We will provide step-by-step instructions on restoring files from Google for desktops and some advice on preventing data loss.

What is the reason for files disappearing on Google Drive for Desktop?

The common scenario of being unable to access data on our desktops often involves crashes or malware attacks. However, a bug takes the spotlight when it comes to files disappearing on Google Drive. The majority of affected users find themselves in this predicament while using Google Drive version 84.

Bugs, in the context of software, represent glitches or unintended errors in the code, and when they infiltrate platforms like Google Drive, they can lead to unexpected and unsettling consequences for users.

These bugs are often challenging to trace and exploit in the system, causing files to go missing without warning. The efficiency of these bugs lies in their ability to bypass conventional security measures and evade detection until the damage is done.

Recovery Process with the Google Drive App

Follow the steps written below to recover files or data from Google Drive for desktop:

Step 1. Download and open the latest version: You should start by downloading and opening the latest version of Google Drive for Windows or macOS.

Step 2. Run the recovery tool: Launch the app and initiate the recovery tool by clicking on the Drive icon in the menu bar or system tray while holding Shift. Navigate to “Settings” and select “Recover from backups.”

Step 3. Initiate recovery: Upon selecting the recovery option, you will receive a notice confirming the start of the recovery process.

Step 4. Folder placement: Once the recovery process is complete, all restored files will be consolidated into a new folder named “Google Drive Recovery.”

Alternative Techniques Through the Command Line Interface

Google has also provided an alternative technique for data recovery through the command-line interface, with detailed instructions on the support page. This additional option provides us flexibility in choosing the method that best suits our preferences and technical proficiency.

For more information, read this: https://support.google.com/drive/answer/14286582?hl=en#zippy=%2Crecover-files-from-backup-from-the-drive-for-desktop-app

Note — If you are unable to recover the lost file, then submit feedback through the drive for the desktop app with the hashtag “#DFD84” and make sure to check the box to include diagnostic logs. If the situation is not solved, then contact Google support.

Click the link for Google Support https://support.google.com/drive/answer/4431192?sjid=6744089983931445818-AP

Prevention Measures to Protect Data Loss

While Google has provided steps to aid in file recovery, it’s important to focus on some preventive measures, like:

1. Regular Backups: To protect data against loss, we should make regular data backups a habit. should regularly back up files to minimize the impact of unforeseen incidents like what happened this time.

2. External Storage Options: We should have the habit of storing a copy on an external data storage device like an external hard disk, SSD, or pen drive. External storage options can provide additional protection for important files.

Final Words

Google’s recovery instructions are a structured solution, but active measures remain essential. Regular backups and external storage are active steps to protect files from unexpected issues, ensuring access during unforeseen challenges.

If you face data loss on your desktop due to a system crash, malware, or accidental deletion, then don’t worry; Techchef Data Recovery is here to help. Recover your files from any storage device — desktop, pen drive, SSD, or hard disk. With over two decades of expertise, Techchef has successfully recovered data from various data loss scenarios.

FAQs

What caused files to disappear on Google Drive for Desktop?

The disappearance of files on Google Drive for Desktop was attributed to a recent bug affecting a small number of users.

How do I initiate the file recovery process?

To begin the recovery process, download and open the latest version of Google Drive for Windows or macOS. Launch the app, click the Drive icon while holding Shift, go to “Settings,” and select “Recover from backups.”

What happens after I initiate the recovery process?

Once the recovery process is started, you will receive a notice, and all restored files will be placed in a new folder named “Google Drive Recovery.”

Can I prevent such incidents in the future?

Yes, you can prevent data loss by regularly backing up your files and considering using external hard drive options to mitigate the impact of unforeseen incidents.

Should I update Google Drive for Desktop after recovering files?

It is advisable to keep Google Drive for Desktop updated to the latest version to ensure optimal functionality and minimize the risk of data loss due to similar bugs in the future.