When friends ask me what programs they should have on their systems, I give them quite a list.  Of course, I list the requisite antivirus/antispyware programs.  But one program stands out as a true lifesaver: Recuva.
This program only has one option: undelete files.  Keep in mind that when you delete a file on your computer (and I mean REALLY delete it by emptying your recycle bin), you truly haven’t erased it.  Windows simply marks that area on your hard disk as reusable.
That’s how the FBI and other government agencies can easily get evidence from computers.  They have special programs that scan a computer for “deleted” files that haven’t been overwritten by something else.
That’s what Recuva does.  Keep in mind, you should install Recuva BEFORE you need it.  Here’s why:  Let’s say you accidentally delete a file.  If Recuva is not already installed, simply installing it might overwrite the file you were trying to restore!  Recuva has saved my bacon a number of times and I highly recommend it. And of course, it’s free!

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