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How to restore from backup

We'll restore your files from File History, Time Machine, or cloud when data is lost or the computer was reset.

How-to · Backups & recovery
10–30 min
What you'll need
  • Backup drive (for File History or Time Machine) or cloud account
  • Access to the computer

Quick answer

  • Connect the backup drive or sign in to the cloud service that holds your backup.
  • Windows: Settings, Update & Security, Backup, Restore files from a current backup.
  • Mac: Enter Time Machine and browse to the date you want, then Restore.
  • Cloud: open the cloud folder or web interface and copy files back.
Quick triage — pick your path

Get started

Choose the option that matches what you see. You can jump straight to that section.

Steps

Goal: Restore files from backup when data is lost or the computer was reset.

  • Connect the backup drive or sign in to the cloud service.
  • Good: Drive or cloud is available. Proceed to File History, Time Machine, or Cloud based on your backup type.

File History (Windows)

Goal: Restore files from a File History backup on Windows.

  • Settings, Update & Security, Backup, More options, Restore files from a current backup.
  • Browse by date. Select files or folders, click Restore. Choose destination.
  • Good: Files appear in the destination. Proceed to Verification.

Time Machine (Mac)

Goal: Restore files from a Time Machine backup on Mac.

  • Connect the backup drive. Open Time Machine. Use the timeline to go to the date before the loss.
  • Select files or folders, click Restore.
  • Good: Files return to their original location. Proceed to Verification.

Cloud

Goal: Restore files from OneDrive, iCloud, or Google Drive.

  • Open the cloud app or website. Find the file. Use Restore previous versions (OneDrive), Recently Deleted (iCloud), or Manage versions (Google Drive).
  • Download or restore to your computer.
  • Good: File opens correctly. Proceed to Verification.

Verification

  • Restored files open correctly and show the expected content.
  • Files are in the correct folder (original location or chosen destination).
  • Backup is re-enabled so future backups continue.

When to get help

If the backup drive is damaged, files will not restore, or you need to recover from a failed drive, consider a data recovery service. For setting up backup, see How to back up your computer.

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

Frequently asked questions

How do I restore from File History?
Connect the backup drive. Settings, Update & Security, Backup, More options, Restore files from a current backup. Browse by date and select the files or folders to restore.
How do I restore from Time Machine?
Connect the backup drive. Open Time Machine from the menu bar or System Settings. Browse the timeline to the date you want, select files, and click Restore.
Can I restore a single file from backup?
Yes. File History and Time Machine let you browse by date and restore individual files or folders. For cloud backups, download the file from the cloud folder or web interface.

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