How to Recover Deleted ZIP Files in PC?

Jackson Strong | September 15th, 2025 | Data Recovery

ZIP files are widely used to compress multiple documents, projects, or media into a single folder. It is widely used to store and share large files easily. However, it becomes a serious problem if a ZIP file gets deleted by accident or lost due to formatting or corruption. The good news is that you can still recover deleted ZIP files from PC or computer.

In this guide, we’ll show you different methods to bring them back, starting with simple manual fixes and moving on to advanced recovery if needed. Whether your file is in the Recycle Bin, a backup, or permanently deleted, the solutions here will help you.

Is It Possible to Recover Permanently Deleted ZIP Files on PC?

Yes, it is possible to recover ZIP files that have been permanently deleted from your computer. When you delete a file, it doesn’t vanish right away. Instead, the space it occupied is marked as “available” for new data. Until that space is overwritten, recovery is still possible.

Here are the main scenarios:

  • If the ZIP file was deleted recently, you can check the Recycle Bin and restore it easily.
  • If File History or a backup drive was enabled, you can restore the file from there.
  • If the ZIP file was removed from the system entirely (Recycle Bin emptied, no backup), then the only way to bring it back is by using a professional data recovery tool.

So, even if your ZIP file seems permanently gone, there are still reliable ways to get it back before the data is overwritten.

How to Recover Deleted ZIP files on Windows for Free?

Before trying any advanced methods, start with these simple recovery options:

1. Check the Recycle Bin

If you deleted the ZIP file recently, it might still be in the Recycle Bin.

  1. Open the Recycle Bin on your desktop.
  2. Search for your deleted ZIP file.
  3. Right-click >> Restore.

Your file will go back to its original location.

2. Restore from File History (Windows 10/11)

Windows File History can help if you had it enabled before the deletion.

  1. Go to the folder where the ZIP file was stored.
  2. Right-click >> Properties >> Previous Versions.
  3. Select a version and click Restore.

3. Recover from Backup

If you regularly back up your PC (external drive, cloud storage), check there. Services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox also allow file recovery from their trash/recycle sections.

What If ZIP Files Are Permanently Deleted?

The above methods work only if the file is still in Recycle Bin or if you have backup. But if:

  • The Recycle Bin was emptied,
  • The drive was formatted,
  • Or no backup exists,

Then manual recovery will not work. The file isn’t gone completely—it’s just hidden until overwritten. To get it back, you’ll need specialized data recovery software.

How to Restore Permanently Deleted ZIP Files Automatically?

If you accidentally deleted a ZIP file and can’t find it in the Recycle Bin, don’t worry. You still have a chance to recover it. When manual methods fail, you can use a professional tool like Advik Data Recovery Software. This tool is designed to scan your hard drive, SSD, USB, or memory card to locate and restore lost or permanently deleted ZIP files.

What You Can Recover with This Tool

  • Restore deleted ZIP, RAR, and compressed files.
  • Recover files from formatted or corrupted drives.
  • Supports internal (HDD/SSD) and external (USB, SD card) storage.
  • Deep scan mode for better chances of recovery.

Steps to Recover Deleted ZIP Files on Computer

Step 1. Run the Software and choose recovery mode.

Run the Software and choose recovery mode

Step 2. Select the drive where the ZIP file was stored.

Select the drive where the ZIP file

Step 3. Click on Scan to recover deleted zip files.

Click on Scan to recover deleted zip files

Step 4. Preview the recoverable files.

Preview the recoverable files

Step 5. Select your ZIP files >> click OK to start.

Select your ZIP files >> click Save to start

Lastly, save them to a secure location on your PC.

Final Thoughts

Losing a ZIP file can be frustrating, especially if it contains important documents or projects. Thankfully, you have multiple ways to recover deleted ZIP files. As you can see that we have discussed all the possible ways that are available to solve this issue. By following these methods, you can restore your lost ZIP files and avoid losing them again in the future.