How to Retrieve and Restore the Previous Version of an Excel File_1

How to recover older version of an Excel file

When working with Excel, it’s not uncommon to accidentally overwrite or lose an older version of a file. Whether it’s due to a software crash, accidental deletion, or a corrupted file, recovering an older version of an Excel file can be a daunting task. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can easily restore your lost data. In this article, we’ll discuss various methods to help you recover an older version of an Excel file.

1. Use the “Previous Versions” feature in Windows

One of the simplest ways to recover an older version of an Excel file is by using the “Previous Versions” feature in Windows. This feature allows you to restore a file to a previous state from a system restore point. Here’s how to do it:

1. Right-click on the Excel file and select “Properties” from the context menu.
2. Go to the “Previous Versions” tab.
3. Check the box next to the desired restore point and click “Restore.” The file will be restored to its previous state.

2. Use the “Recover Unsaved Workbooks” feature in Excel

Excel has a built-in feature that saves unsaved workbooks at regular intervals. If you’ve recently closed an Excel file without saving, you may be able to recover it using this feature. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open Excel and go to the “File” menu.
2. Select “Open” and then click on the “Recent” tab.
3. Scroll down to the “Recover Unsaved Workbooks” section and click on the file you want to recover.
4. Click “Open” to restore the file.

3. Use the “AutoRecover” feature in Excel

Excel’s “AutoRecover” feature automatically saves your work at regular intervals, allowing you to recover unsaved changes. To use this feature, follow these steps:

1. Open Excel and go to the “File” menu.
2. Select “Options” and then click on the “Save” tab.
3. Check the “Save AutoRecover information every X minutes” box and enter the desired time interval.
4. Click “OK” to save the settings.

4. Use a third-party data recovery tool

If the above methods don’t work, you can try using a third-party data recovery tool. These tools are designed to recover lost or deleted files from various storage devices, including Excel files. Some popular data recovery tools include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. To use these tools, follow the instructions provided by the software.

5. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash

Before resorting to more advanced recovery methods, make sure to check the Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac) for the deleted Excel file. If you find the file there, simply restore it to its original location.

In conclusion, recovering an older version of an Excel file can be achieved through various methods, including using Windows’ “Previous Versions” feature, Excel’s built-in recovery tools, third-party data recovery software, and checking the Recycle Bin or Trash. By following these steps, you can easily restore your lost data and continue working on your project.