How to Undelete a File Utility With Open Source

Several free open source programs can undelete file utilities easily.

File utility software can be a great tool for managing the data on your computer. In particular, the increased organization can help you avoid accidentally deleting files. If you delete the utility program itself, though, it doesn't do much good. Luckily, several open source programs can likely help you undelete it. The more recently you deleted it, the higher your chances are for success.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Undelete the file utility with Recuva. This open source program is popular for its ease of use, even for those not particularly computer savvy. A drop-down menu helps you choose which drive to search. You can customize the time of deletion for faster results. The program is free to download, but for a version that includes product support, you will pay $24.95 as of January 2011.

2. Undelete the file utility with NTFS Undelete. This free open source program scans your entire hard drive for deleted files and programs. It sorts things by file type in the left-hand pane, so after the scan you can click "Application" to find the file utility software. One click of "Restore File" and you're done.

3. Undelete the file utility with Pandora Recovery. This free program works in a similar manner to NTFS Undelete but features a nested folder structure to help you narrow your search even more. Using it may prove slightly more challenging for novice users, but the trade-off is increased functionality and customization.

References

• Zimbio: Free and Open Source Software: Recover Deleted Files

Resources

• Piriform: Recuva -- Download
• NTFS Undelete: Home
• Pandora Recovery: Home