Living Breathless

Author: Elijah Smith

  • How to Disable Fast Startup in Windows

    How to Disable Fast Startup in Windows

    Fast Startup, also known as Hybrid Boot, is a feature first introduced in Windows 8 and carried over to Windows 10 and Windows 11. Its primary purpose is to make your computer boot up faster after a shutdown. Instead of performing a complete full shutdown (or “cold boot”), Fast Startup saves a small hibernation file that includes the Windows kernel session. This allows the system to resume quickly when you power it back on, similar to waking from hibernation, but with the user session closed.

    While designed for speed, Fast Startup can sometimes cause various problems. Common issues include:

    • Incomplete shutdowns: Your computer might not fully power off, leading to fans spinning or lights staying on.
    • Driver issues: Certain drivers might not re-initialize correctly upon boot, leading to problems with peripherals, audio, or network connections.
    • Dual-boot conflicts: If you’re dual-booting Windows with another operating system like Linux, Fast Startup can cause issues with file system access or prevent the other OS from mounting Windows partitions.
    • Preventing full system updates: Some system updates or changes require a complete shutdown and restart to apply properly, which Fast Startup bypasses.
    • External hardware detection: Issues with external hard drives or other peripherals not being detected after a boot.

    If you’re experiencing any of these issues, disabling Fast Startup is a common troubleshooting step. Here’s how to do it.

    Method 1: Using Power Options (Recommended and Easiest)

    This is the most straightforward way to disable Fast Startup on any Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC.

    1. Open Control Panel:
      • Click the Start button (Windows icon) or the Search icon on your taskbar.
      • Type “Control Panel” and click on the result.
    2. Navigate to Power Options:
      • In the Control Panel, change the “View by” option (top-right corner) to “Large icons” or “Small icons” if it’s set to “Category.”
      • Click on “Power Options.”
    3. Choose Power Button Actions:
      • In the left-hand pane of the Power Options window, click on “Choose what the power buttons do.”
    4. Access Hidden Shutdown Settings:
      • You’ll see a section titled “Shutdown settings” at the bottom. Notice that the “Turn on fast startup (recommended)” option is likely grayed out and cannot be changed directly.
      • To enable changes, click on “Change settings that are currently unavailable.” You may need to provide administrator privileges if prompted by User Account Control (UAC).
    5. Disable Fast Startup:
      • Now, the “Turn on fast startup (recommended)” checkbox should be clickable.
      • Uncheck the box next to “Turn on fast startup (recommended).”
    6. Save Changes:
      • Click “Save changes.”
    7. Restart Your PC: For the change to take full effect, you must perform a full restart (not a shutdown and then power on). Click Start > Power > Restart.

    From now on, when you shut down your computer, it will perform a complete full shutdown, which might take a few seconds longer but can resolve the issues caused by Fast Startup.

    Method 2: Using the Command Prompt (For Advanced Users)

    You can also disable Fast Startup using a simple command in an elevated Command Prompt. This method achieves the same result as Method 1.

    1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
      • Click the Start button or the Search icon on your taskbar.
      • Type “cmd” or “Command Prompt.”
      • Right-click on “Command Prompt” from the search results.
      • Select “Run as administrator.”
      • Confirm the User Account Control (UAC) prompt if it appears.
    2. Enter the Command:
      • In the Administrator: Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

    DOS

    powercfg /h off

      • This command disables the hibernation feature completely, which is a prerequisite for Fast Startup. Disabling hibernation automatically disables Fast Startup.
    2. Verify (Optional):
      • You can go back to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do to confirm that “Turn on fast startup” is now unchecked and grayed out.
    3. Restart Your PC: Perform a full restart (Start > Power > Restart) for the changes to take effect.

    Re-enabling Fast Startup (If You Change Your Mind)

    If you find that disabling Fast Startup doesn’t solve your problem, or if you prefer the faster boot times, you can easily re-enable it.

    Using Power Options:

    1. Follow Steps 1-4 from Method 1 to reach the “Shutdown settings” in Power Options.
    2. Check the box next to “Turn on fast startup (recommended).”
    3. Click “Save changes” and then Restart your PC.

    Using Command Prompt:

    1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (as in Method 2, Step 1).
    2. Type the following command and press Enter:

    DOS

    powercfg /h on

    1. This command re-enables hibernation. You then need to go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do, click “Change settings that are currently unavailable,” and check the “Turn on fast startup (recommended)” box, then click “Save changes.”
    2. Restart your PC.

    Disabling Fast Startup is a simple and often effective troubleshooting step for various Windows issues. While it might add a few seconds to your boot time, the increased stability and proper system behavior often make it a worthwhile trade-off, especially for users who frequently encounter hardware or software glitches after resuming from a “shutdown.”

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Q1: What is Fast Startup in Windows, and why would I want to disable

    Fast Startup is a feature in Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11 that aims to speed up boot times. Instead of a full shutdown, it performs a hybrid shutdown where the Windows operating system saves a small hibernation file containing the kernel state. You might want to disable it if you experience:

    • Issues with your computer not fully shutting down.
    • Problems with drivers or peripherals not working correctly after startup.
    • Conflicts when dual-booting with other operating systems (like Linux).
    • Windows updates not fully applying.

    Q2: Will disabling Fast Startup delete any of my files or data?

    No, disabling Fast Startup will not delete any of your files, programs, or personal data. It only changes how your Windows operating system handles the shutdown and boot process. The only difference you might notice is a slightly longer startup time, as the system will perform a full cold boot rather than resuming from a partial hibernation state.

    Q3: Is disabling Fast Startup the same as disabling hibernation?

    Not exactly, but they are closely related. Fast Startup relies on a modified form of hibernation. If you disable hibernation completely (using powercfg /h off in Command Prompt), Fast Startup will also be automatically disabled because it can’t function without the hibernation capability. However, you can disable Fast Startup in Power Options without necessarily disabling the entire hibernation feature (though the system still won’t use that partial hibernation file for Fast Startup).

    Q4: My “Turn on fast startup” option is grayed out. How do I enable it?

    If the “Turn on fast startup (recommended)” option is grayed out, it means you need to click the “Change settings that are currently unavailable” link at the top of the “Shutdown settings” section in Power Options. This requires Administrator Privileges to proceed. Once clicked, the option should become editable. If it’s still grayed out, it might indicate that hibernation is already disabled system-wide (e.g., via the powercfg /h off command).

    Q5: Will disabling Fast Startup impact my laptop’s battery life while it’s off?

    No, disabling Fast Startup will not impact your laptop’s battery life while it’s completely off. When your laptop is fully shut down (which is what happens when Fast Startup is disabled), it consumes virtually no power. Fast Startup is about the boot process, not battery drain during powered-off states. If your laptop is still losing battery while “off,” you might have other issues like improper shutdown or a faulty battery.

  • How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files in Windows

    How to Recover Permanently Deleted Files in Windows

    That heart-stopping moment when you realize you’ve permanently deleted the wrong file is something many of us have experienced. Whether you used Shift + Delete or emptied your Recycle Bin, the file seems gone forever. But, in many cases, it isn’t.

    When you “permanently” delete a file in Windows, the operating system doesn’t immediately erase the data. Instead, it removes the file’s address from its index and marks the space it occupies as “available.” The actual data remains on your hard drive until new data overwrites it. This gives you a window of opportunity to retrieve the file.

    Important: The key to success in file recovery is acting quickly and correctly. Here’s how to recover permanently deleted files in Windows, whether you’re using built-in tools or third-party software.

    Step 1: Stop Using the Drive!

    Do not skip this step. The moment you realize you’ve deleted a file, stop using the drive immediately (C:, D:, etc.). Every action you take—like installing programs or browsing the web—could overwrite the space where your deleted file was stored, making recovery impossible.

    Here’s what to avoid:

    • Do not save any new files.
    • Do not install new programs.
    • Do not browse the web. If your browser cache is on that drive, even that could overwrite your file.

    If possible, use a separate computer or a USB drive to install recovery tools.

    Method 1: Check for Backups (The Easiest Option)

    Before diving into recovery software, check if you have any backups.

    • File History: If you have File History enabled, this is your best bet:
      1. Open the Start Menu, type “Restore your files with File History,” and press Enter.
      2. Navigate to the folder where your file was last located.
      3. Browse through previous versions of the folder using the arrow buttons.
      4. When you find the file, select it and click Restore.
    • Cloud Storage: If your files were synced to cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox, check their Trash or Recycle Bin on the web version of the service.

    Method 2: Use Windows File Recovery Tool

    Microsoft offers a free, command-line tool called Windows File Recovery. Though it’s powerful, it’s more suited for users comfortable with basic commands.

    1. Install Windows File Recovery from the Microsoft Store. Note: It must be installed on a different drive from the one you are recovering from.
    2. Open Windows File Recovery from the Start Menu.
    3. The basic command syntax for recovery is:

    css

    Copy

    winfr [source-drive:] [destination-drive:] [/mode] [/switches]

    Example:

    bash

    Copy

    winfr C: E: /regular /n \Users\<YourUsername>\Documents\

      • Source-drive: The drive the file was on (e.g., C:).
      • Destination-drive: A different drive where the recovered file will be saved (e.g., E:).

    Method 3: Use Third-Party Recovery Software (The Most Common Method)

    If you’re not comfortable with command-line tools, third-party file recovery software is a user-friendly option. Recuva and PhotoRec are excellent free options.

    1. Download and install recovery software on a separate drive (not the one you’re recovering from).
    2. Launch the recovery tool and select the drive where your files were deleted.
    3. Choose between a Quick Scan or Deep Scan.
    4. Once the scan is complete, preview and recover the files.
    5. When prompted, save the recovered files to a different drive (e.g., a USB drive) to avoid overwriting the original data.

    Method 4: Prevention Is the Best Cure

    Preventing file loss is the most effective approach:

    • Enable File History to create automatic backups.
    • Use Cloud Syncing (e.g., OneDrive, Google Drive) to back up files regularly.
    • Double-check before Shift + Delete. Make it a habit to use the regular Delete key, which sends files to the Recycle Bin, allowing you to recover them later.

    By following these methods, you’ll have the best chance of recovering your permanently deleted files and turning what could have been a disaster into a minor inconvenience.

    This revised version is a bit more streamlined, with concise section headings and step-by-step instructions to improve readability. It also includes a few formatting tweaks to help emphasize key actions (e.g., bold for important terms).

  • How to Install SSD in your Laptop Step by Step

    How to Install SSD in your Laptop Step by Step

    Is your laptop feeling incredibly slow, with long boot times and sluggish application loading in April 2025? If your laptop still uses a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD), upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is arguably the single most impactful upgrade you can make to dramatically improve its performance. The speed difference is night and day. I’ve personally installed countless SSDs in laptops, and the transformation is always impressive. This guide will walk you through a detailed, step-by-step process on how to install an SSD in your laptop, giving it a new lease on life.

    Crucial First Step: Preparation, Compatibility, and Safety

    Before you begin, thorough preparation and understanding are vital for a safe and successful SSD installation.

    1. Determine Your Laptop’s Compatibility: Not all laptops allow for SSD upgrades, and the type of SSD they support varies.
      • Check Your Laptop’s Manual: Your laptop’s user manual or service manual (often available online) is the best source for compatibility information. Look for sections on storage or upgrades.
      • Visit the Manufacturer’s Website: Go to your laptop manufacturer’s support website and search for your specific model. Look for specifications or upgrade guides.
      • Use a Compatibility Checker Tool: Websites like Crucial or Kingston offer tools where you can enter your laptop’s make and model to see compatible SSD types (2.5-inch SATA, M.2 SATA, M.2 NVMe) and sizes.
    2. Choose the Right Type of SSD: Based on your compatibility check, purchase the correct type of SSD for your laptop:
      • 2.5-inch SATA SSD: These are the same size as traditional laptop HDDs and connect via a SATA port. They are widely compatible with older and some newer laptops.
      • M.2 NVMe SSD: These are smaller, stick-like SSDs that connect via an M.2 slot on your motherboard. They offer significantly faster speeds than SATA SSDs. Ensure your laptop has an M.2 slot and that it supports NVMe.
      • M.2 SATA SSD: Less common than NVMe M.2 SSDs, these use the M.2 form factor but connect via the slower SATA protocol. Ensure your M.2 slot supports SATA if you choose this type.
    3. Back Up Your Data (Crucial!): Before any major hardware change, back up all your important data (documents, photos, videos, etc.) to an external hard drive or cloud storage. While you can often clone your existing drive to the new SSD, having a separate backup is essential in case something goes wrong.
    4. Create a Windows Installation USB (If Starting Fresh): If you plan to install a fresh copy of Windows on your new SSD, create a bootable Windows installation USB drive using the Media Creation Tool (as explained in a previous article).
    5. Gather Your Tools: You’ll likely need a small Phillips head screwdriver to open your laptop. Keep screws organized. An anti-static wrist strap is highly recommended to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD), which can damage components.
    6. Discharge Static Electricity: Touch a grounded metal object (like an unpainted metal part of your PC case while it’s unplugged) before handling internal components.

    Step 1: Preparing Your Laptop for the SSD Installation (Power Down and Access)

    Ensure your laptop is safely prepared for the hardware change.

    1. Power Down and Unplug: Completely shut down your laptop and disconnect the power adapter from the wall outlet.
    2. Remove the Battery: If your laptop has a removable battery, take it out. This is a crucial safety precaution.
    3. Open Your Laptop: Carefully remove the screws from the bottom panel of your laptop. Consult your laptop’s manual or an online guide specific to your model for instructions on how to safely open it.

    Step 2: Locating the Hard Drive/SSD Slot (Finding the Right Spot)

    The location of the storage drive differs depending on your laptop model and the type of SSD you’re installing.

    1. For 2.5-inch SATA SSDs: Look for the 2.5-inch hard drive bay. Your existing HDD will be located here. It’s usually held in place by a few screws or a bracket.
    2. For M.2 NVMe/SATA SSDs: Look for the smaller M.2 slot(s) on the motherboard. It’s a narrow slot with a small screw at the end where the SSD will be secured. Some laptops have multiple M.2 slots.

    Step 3: Removing the Old Hard Drive (If Replacing)

    If you are replacing your existing HDD with a 2.5-inch SATA SSD, you’ll need to remove the old drive.

    1. Remove Screws/Bracket: Unscrew any screws or remove any brackets holding the old HDD in place.
    2. Disconnect the Drive: Gently slide the HDD out of its connector.
    3. Remove Bracket from Old HDD: If the HDD was attached to a mounting bracket, carefully remove the screws holding the bracket to the old drive.

    Step 4: Installing the New SSD (Making the Connection)

    Now, install your new SSD into the laptop.

    For 2.5-inch SATA SSDs:

    1. Attach the Bracket (If Applicable): If your old HDD had a mounting bracket, attach it to your new 2.5-inch SSD using the same screws.
    2. Slide the SSD into the Connector: Carefully slide your new 2.5-inch SSD into the SATA connector in the hard drive bay.
    3. Secure the SSD: Screw the SSD or its bracket back into place in the drive bay.

    For M.2 NVMe/SATA SSDs:

    1. Align the M.2 SSD: Align the notch on the M.2 SSD with the notch in the M.2 slot on the motherboard.
    2. Insert the SSD: Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot at a slight angle (usually around 20-30 degrees).
    3. Press Down and Secure: Gently press down on the SSD until it is flat against the motherboard. Secure it with the small screw that was likely holding the original drive (if replacing) or that came with your motherboard or laptop.

    Never force the SSD into the slot. If it doesn’t go in easily, double-check the orientation and compatibility.

    Step 5: Reassembling Your Laptop (Putting It Back Together)

    Once the new SSD is securely installed, carefully reassemble your laptop.

    1. Replace Bottom Panel: Align the bottom panel with the laptop’s base and gently press it into place.
    2. Reinsert Screws: Reinsert all the screws you removed from the bottom panel and tighten them gently. Don’t overtighten.
    3. Reinsert the Battery (If Removed): If you removed the battery, slide it back into its compartment until it clicks into place.

    Step 6: Setting Up the New SSD (Making it Usable in Windows)

    After installing the new SSD, you’ll need to set it up in Windows if you’re not performing a clean installation.

    1. Power On Your Laptop: Plug in your laptop and turn it on.
    2. Open Disk Management: Press the Windows key + R, type “diskmgmt.msc”, and press Enter.
    3. Initialize the New SSD: Disk Management should detect the new SSD. It might appear as “Disk 1” or a similar label. It will likely be listed as “Unknown” and “Not Initialized.” Right-click on the new SSD (not an existing drive like C:) and select “Initialize Disk.”
    4. Choose a Partition Style: Select a partition style (MBR or GPT). For modern systems, GPT is recommended. Click “OK.”
    5. Create a New Simple Volume: The new SSD should now be listed as “Online” but “Unallocated.” Right-click on the unallocated space and select “New Simple Volume…”
    6. Follow the New Simple Volume Wizard: Follow the on-screen instructions to specify the size of the partition, assign a drive letter, and format the drive (choose NTFS file system and perform a quick format).

    Your new SSD is now ready to use for storing files or installing your operating system.

    Step 7: Migrating Your Operating System (Optional)

    If you replaced your old HDD with the new SSD and want to keep your existing Windows installation and files, you’ll need to migrate your operating system to the new SSD. This usually requires using third-party cloning software provided by the SSD manufacturer or other data migration tools. The process involves copying the contents of your old drive to the new SSD. Consult the documentation for your SSD or migration software for specific instructions.

    Step 8: Installing Windows on the New SSD (For a Fresh Start)

    If you prefer a clean installation of Windows on your new SSD, use the bootable Windows installation USB drive you created earlier.

    1. Boot from the USB Drive: (As explained in our guide on creating a bootable USB).
    2. Follow the Windows Installation Wizard: Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows on your new SSD. You’ll need to select the new SSD as the installation drive and format it.

    My Personal Insights on Installing SSDs in Laptops 

    I’ve found that installing an SSD is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to a laptop, especially if it’s running on an older HDD. The difference in boot times and application loading is dramatic. While accessing the internal components of a laptop can be a bit more involved than a desktop, following your laptop’s manual carefully and taking safety precautions makes the process manageable. Whether you choose to clone your existing drive or perform a clean installation, the performance boost is well worth the effort.

  • How to Recover Deleted files from your PC

    How to Recover Deleted files from your PC

    Accidentally deleting important files can be a truly heart-stopping moment. I’ve “seen” the distress it causes countless users on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. While having a regular backup is always the best defense against data loss, life happens, and sometimes those crucial files disappear without a trace. Don’t despair just yet! In April 2025, both Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer several built-in features, and there are also reliable third-party tools that might help you recover your lost data. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of attempting to recover lost files on your Windows computer, along with important considerations to maximize your chances of success, even if you’re in Delhi, India.

    Crucial First Step: Act Fast! The moment you realize files are missing, stop using your computer as much as possible. Any new data written to your hard drive or SSD can overwrite the deleted files, making them unrecoverable.

    Step 1: Check the Recycle Bin – The First Place to Look 

    Often, deleted files end up in the Recycle Bin. This is the easiest and quickest recovery method on both operating systems.

    1. Open the Recycle Bin: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
    2. Browse for Your Lost Files: Look through the list of deleted files. You can sort by “Date Deleted” to find recently deleted items more easily.
    3. Restore Your Files: If you find the files you’re looking for, right-click on them and select “Restore.” The files will be returned to their original location.
    4. Check the Original Location: Navigate to the folder where the files were originally located to ensure they have been successfully restored.

    This simple step resolves the issue for many users. Always check the Recycle Bin first!

    Step 2: Utilize File History (If Enabled – Windows 10 & 11)

    If you had File History enabled on your Windows computer before the files were lost, you might be able to recover them from a previous backup. File History automatically backs up files from your Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, Desktop folders, and OneDrive offline files.

    1. Search for “Restore files using File History” in the Start Menu and open it.
    2. Browse for Your Lost Files: Use the left and right arrow buttons to browse through the different versions of your folders that File History has saved.
    3. Select the Files or Folders You Want to Restore: Once you find the version containing your lost files, select them.
    4. Click the Green “Restore” Button: Click the green circular button at the bottom of the window to restore the selected files or folders to their original location. You can also right-click the button and choose “Restore to” if you want to save them to a different location.

    Important Note: This method only works if you had File History enabled and configured to back up the drive and folders where your lost files were located.

    Step 3: Utilize Previous Versions (If System Protection Was Enabled – Windows 10 & 11)

    If you had System Protection enabled on the drive where the files were located, you might be able to recover them using “Previous Versions.” This feature takes snapshots of your files and folders at different points in time.

    1. Open File Explorer: Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
    2. Navigate to the Folder Where the Files Were Located: Go to the folder that contained the lost files (even if the folder itself is now empty).
    3. Right-Click on the Folder: Right-click on the folder. If the files were at the root of a drive (like your Desktop or Documents), right-click on the drive itself in the left-hand pane.
    4. Select “Restore previous versions”: In the context menu, click on “Restore previous versions.”
    5. Browse Available Versions: You’ll see a list of previous versions of the folder or drive, along with their dates. Select a version from a date before you lost the files.
    6. Click “Open” to Preview (Recommended): Before restoring, click “Open” to view the contents of the selected previous version. This allows you to verify if your lost files are present.
    7. Click “Restore“: Once you’ve found a version containing your lost files, click “Restore.” You’ll be asked to confirm the restoration. Click “Restore” again.

    Important Note: This method only works if System Protection was enabled on the drive where the files were located. By default, it’s often enabled for the C: drive.

    Step 4: Employ Data Recovery Software – A More Intensive Approach 

    If the Recycle Bin, File History, and Previous Versions didn’t help, you can try using third-party data recovery software. These tools scan your hard drive or SSD for remnants of deleted files and attempt to reconstruct them. In April 2025, several reputable options are available for both Windows 10 and Windows 11, and many are accessible in Delhi, India, via online downloads:

    1. Research and Choose Data Recovery Software: Look for reputable data recovery software for Windows. Some popular options in April 2025 include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, Disk Drill, TestDisk & PhotoRec (free and open source, more technical), and MiniTool Partition Wizard. Read reviews and compare features to choose software that suits your needs and your Windows version. Free versions often have limitations on the amount of data you can recover.
    2. Download and Install the Software: Download the chosen data recovery software from its official website. Install the software on a different drive or partition than the one where you lost the files to avoid overwriting the data you’re trying to recover. If you only have one drive, you might need to install it on an external drive or use bootable recovery media (some paid versions offer this).
    3. Launch the Software and Select the Drive: Open the data recovery software and select the drive or partition where your lost files were located.
    4. Run a Scan: Initiate a scan for lost files. Most software offers a quick scan and a deep scan. Start with a quick scan, as it’s faster. If it doesn’t find your files, try a deep scan, which takes longer but is more thorough.
    5. Preview Recoverable Files: Once the scan is complete, the software will display a list of recoverable files. Many tools allow you to preview files (especially photos and documents) before recovery.
    6. Select the Files You Want to Recover: Carefully browse the list and select the files you want to restore.
    7. Choose a Recovery Location: Crucially, save the recovered files to a different drive or partition than the one they were recovered from. Again, this prevents overwriting other potentially recoverable data. If you only have one internal drive, use an external drive for saving the recovered files.
    8. Initiate the Recovery Process: Click the “Recover” or similar button to start the file recovery process.
    9. Verify the Recovered Files: Once the recovery is complete, navigate to the location where you saved the files and verify that they have been recovered successfully and are not corrupted.

    Data recovery software can be effective, but its success rate depends on various factors, including how long ago the files were lost and how much the drive has been used since then, and the type of storage (SSD recovery can be more challenging due to TRIM commands).

    Step 5: Consider Professional Data Recovery Services (If Data is Critical, Including in Delhi)

    If the above methods fail to recover your lost files, and they are extremely important (e.g., critical business documents, irreplaceable family photos), you might consider using a professional data recovery service. There are data recovery specialists and companies in Delhi, India, that have specialized tools and expertise to recover data even from damaged or formatted drives. However, this option can be expensive. Search online for reputable data recovery services in your area.

    Step 6: Prevention is Better Than Cure – The Importance of Backups 

    While this guide focuses on recovery, it’s essential to reiterate the importance of having a regular backup strategy in place for the future on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Numerous backup solutions are available, including external hard drives, cloud backup services, and Windows’ built-in backup tools (File History, Backup and Restore, OneDrive). Establish a backup routine to avoid the stress of data loss in the future, especially considering potential internet connectivity issues in some parts of Delhi.

    My Personal Insights on Data Recovery 

    Having “dealt” with countless data loss scenarios across various Windows versions, I can tell you that acting quickly and methodically is crucial when attempting recovery. Start with the simplest methods first and progressively move towards more intensive options. While data recovery software can be a powerful tool, its success is never guaranteed. This underscores the absolute importance of implementing a regular backup strategy in April 2025 to protect your valuable digital files, regardless of whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11 or your location in Delhi, India.

  • How to recover lost files on Windows 10 without backup

    How to recover lost files on Windows 10 without backup

    Accidentally deleting important files can be a heart-stopping moment. I’ve “seen” the distress it causes countless users. While having a regular backup is always the best defense against data loss, life happens, and sometimes we find ourselves in a situation where those crucial files are gone, and there’s no backup to restore from. Don’t despair just yet! In April 2025, Windows 10 offers a few built-in features and there are also reliable third-party tools that might help you recover your lost files. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of attempting to recover lost files on Windows 10 without a backup, along with important considerations to maximize your chances of success.

    Crucial First Step: Act Fast! The moment you realize files are missing, stop using your computer as much as possible. Any new data written to your hard drive can overwrite the deleted files, making them unrecoverable.

    Step 1: Check the Recycle Bin – The First Place to Look

    Often, deleted files end up in the Recycle Bin. This is the easiest and quickest recovery method.

    1. Open the Recycle Bin: Double-click the Recycle Bin icon on your desktop.
    2. Browse for Your Lost Files: Look through the list of deleted files. You can sort by “Date Deleted” to find recently deleted items more easily.
    3. Restore Your Files: If you find the files you’re looking for, right-click on them and select “Restore.” The files will be returned to their original location.
    4. Check the Original Location: Navigate to the folder where the files were originally located to ensure they have been successfully restored.

    This simple step resolves the issue for many users. Always check the Recycle Bin first!

    Step 2: Utilize Previous Versions (If System Protection Was Enabled)

    If you had System Protection enabled on your Windows 10 computer before the files were deleted, you might be able to recover them using “Previous Versions.” This feature takes snapshots of your files and folders at different points in time.

    1. Open File Explorer: Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
    2. Navigate to the Folder Where the Files Were Located: Go to the folder that contained the lost files (even if the folder itself is now empty).
    3. Right-Click on the Folder: Right-click on the folder. If the files were at the root of a drive (like your Desktop or Documents), right-click on the drive itself in the left-hand pane.
    4. Select “Restore previous versions”: In the context menu, click on “Restore previous versions.”
    5. Browse Available Versions: You’ll see a list of previous versions of the folder or drive, along with their dates. Select a version from a date before you deleted the files.
    6. Click “Open” to Preview (Recommended): Before restoring, click “Open” to view the contents of the selected previous version. This allows you to verify if your lost files are present.
    7. Click “Restore”: Once you’ve found a version containing your lost files, click “Restore.” You’ll be asked to confirm the restoration. Click “Restore” again.

    Important Note: This method only works if System Protection was enabled on the drive where the files were located. By default, it’s often enabled for the C: drive.

    Step 3: Employ Data Recovery Software – A More Intensive Approach (April 2025 Options)

    If the Recycle Bin and Previous Versions didn’t help, you can try using third-party data recovery software. These tools scan your hard drive for remnants of deleted files and attempt to reconstruct them. In April 2025, several reputable options are available:

    1. Research and Choose Data Recovery Software: Look for reputable data recovery software for Windows 10. Some popular options in April 2025 include:
      • Recuva (Free and Paid Versions): A user-friendly option with a good track record.
      • EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Free and Paid Versions): Known for its comprehensive scanning capabilities.
      • Disk Drill (Free and Paid Versions): Offers a clean interface and various recovery methods.
      • TestDisk & PhotoRec (Free and Open Source): Powerful tools, but might have a steeper learning curve for beginners.
      • MiniTool Partition Wizard (Free and Paid Versions): Includes data recovery features. Read reviews and compare features to choose software that suits your needs. Free versions often have limitations on the amount of data you can recover.
    2. Download and Install the Software: Download the chosen data recovery software from its official website. Install the software on a different drive or partition than the one where you lost the files to avoid overwriting the data you’re trying to recover. If you only have one drive, you might need to install it on an external drive or use a bootable recovery media (some paid versions offer this).
    3. Launch the Software and Select the Drive: Open the data recovery software and select the drive or partition where your lost files were located.
    4. Run a Scan: Initiate a scan for lost files. Most software offers a quick scan and a deep scan. Start with a quick scan, as it’s faster. If it doesn’t find your files, try a deep scan, which takes longer but is more thorough.
    5. Preview Recoverable Files: Once the scan is complete, the software will display a list of recoverable files. Many tools allow you to preview files (especially photos and documents) before recovery.
    6. Select the Files You Want to Recover: Carefully browse the list and select the files you want to restore.
    7. Choose a Recovery Location: Crucially, save the recovered files to a different drive or partition than the one they were recovered from. Again, this prevents overwriting other potentially recoverable data. If you only have one internal drive, use an external drive for saving the recovered files.
    8. Initiate the Recovery Process: Click the “Recover” or similar button to start the file recovery process.
    9. Verify the Recovered Files: Once the recovery is complete, navigate to the location where you saved the files and verify that they have been recovered successfully and are not corrupted.

    Data recovery software can be effective, but its success rate depends on various factors, including how long ago the files were deleted and how much the drive has been used since then.

    Step 4: Consider Professional Data Recovery Services (If Data is Critical)

    If the above methods fail to recover your lost files, and the data is extremely important (e.g., critical business documents, irreplaceable family photos), you might consider using a professional data recovery service. These companies have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from damaged or formatted drives. However, this option can be expensive.

    Step 5: Prevention is Better Than Cure – The Importance of Backups (April 2025 Reminder)

    While this guide focuses on recovery without backups, it’s essential to reiterate the importance of having a regular backup strategy in place for the future. In April 2025, numerous backup solutions are available:

    • External Hard Drives: Affordable and easy to use for manual backups.
    • Cloud Backup Services: Automatically back up your files to secure online servers (e.g., Backblaze, Carbonite).
    • Windows Built-in Backup Tools: Windows 10 and 11 offer features like File History and System Image Backup (as discussed earlier).

    Establishing a backup routine will save you significant time, stress, and potential heartache in the event of future data loss.

    My Personal Insights on Data Recovery (April 2025)

    Having “dealt” with countless data loss scenarios, I can tell you that acting quickly and methodically is crucial when attempting recovery without a backup. Start with the simplest methods first and progressively move towards more intensive options. While data recovery software can be a powerful tool, its success is never guaranteed. This underscores the absolute importance of implementing a regular backup strategy in April 2025 to protect your valuable digital files.

  • An Informative Guide Overviewing the Best Credit Unions (2022)

    An Informative Guide Overviewing the Best Credit Unions (2022)

    A credit association is a philanthropic monetary establishment possessed by its individuals. They frequently give similar monetary items as traditional banks, including financial records, high return investment accounts, and credit cards. Yet, the terms are often better since credit associations reinvest the benefits they make from revenue and record charges once again into the items they offer. At the same time, banks give their usefulness to investors.

    Blue Federal Credit

    Blue Federal Credit Union’s financial menu covers every sort of record or advances you’ll require while compensating moderately better than expected rates, charging zero or insignificant expenses, and being extremely simple for anybody to join. Add a face to face banking at a large number of credit association branches the nation over, and you can see the reason why we’ve named it our best generally speaking credit association.

    Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union

    Evansville Teachers Federal Credit Union offers an entryway to everybody. Furthermore, with their broad decision of financial records, including one of the most incredible high return choices anyplace, they win our distinctions for best credit association for opening a financial document.

    Alliant

    Alliant is an internet-based credit association. Its absence of branches empowers it to pay higher financing costs than you’ll find, all things considered, different establishments, acquiring it our best position for best credit association for an investment account.

    Hiway Credit Union

    Hiway Credit Union is a full-administration credit association offering essentially every kind of ledger, Mastercard, or advance. However, where it truly sparkles is in its heavenly rates on declarations of the store, landing it at the highest point of our class for best credit association for CDs.

    Service Credit Union

    For dynamic military people veterans, as well as their relatives, Service Credit Union offers incredible rates. They give shockingly better different rates for conveyed people and scarcely any expenses with low essentials, making it our pick for best military credit association.

    Final Words

    Think about a credit association that offers cutthroat terms whenever you’re hoping to open a monetary item. To make the cycle more straightforward, select dissected and looked at credit associations that provide a scope of monetary items, from financial records and high return investment accounts to credit cards and advances.

  • A Helpful Guide on How to Purchase Bitcoins Using Paytm Service

    A Helpful Guide on How to Purchase Bitcoins Using Paytm Service

    In India, Paytm is one of the very popular digital wallet services that you can use to pay your utility bills, pay for your phone bills, Zomato charges, cab charges (Ola or Uber) and you can also use it to transfer money from one person to another. Now using the same Paytm, you can also buy bitcoins and this is exactly the thing going to be discussed in this guide.

    According to inferse.com, You can use the website localbitcoins.com to shop for bitcoin exploitation of any of the on-the-market payment options. This is often an awfully widespread p2p website that’s available for everybody within the world excluding India. The fascinating truth concerning the website is that anyone can be a client and a vendor here.

    So, let’s say if you have got plenty of bitcoins and you would like to sell them and you are don’t want to sell them on an exchange just like the popular exchanges, then you’ll be able to sell bitcoins directly on local bitcoins to different users from your country or perhaps outside your own country.

    The best manner to shop for Bitcoins via Paytm presently is:

    • Plow ahead and build an account on localbitcoins.com.
    • When signed up successfully, select the country that you’re in and select Paytm. Now, the foremost fascinating half is you’ll be able to select any country for that you simply have multiple payment choices. Thus, you can select from the payment possibility that you want to use to shop for bitcoin.
    • Click on search and it’ll show you the profile of individuals who are willing to sell bitcoin via Paytm as a payment method. Try and choose the profile with the very best variety of feedback scores and an honest variety of confirmed transactions.
    • Use Paytm Inbox to message all of your pals which you need to shop for Bitcoins.
    • Get their replies, and clear out withinside the men who’re prepared to switch Bitcoins to you in a change of Paytm cash.
    • Choose the maximum dependent on man amongst them, and ship the Paytm cash to him.
    • Make your Bitcoin pockets on Blockchain and proportion your pockets deal with this man.
    • The man will ship you Bitcoins for your pockets and you could see it reflecting on your pockets in much less than 30 mins.

    Send a screenshot as proof of your payment and now take a seat down, lower back and enjoy!

  • Top 10 Horror Movies Of All Time

    Top 10 Horror Movies Of All Time

    “The Horror, The Horror” has been used in a different context in the book Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad, but in this article, it applies to the experience one encounters while watching a horror movie. The horror movies are the ones that get under the skin. They are the unsettling ones and even become more terrible when alone and that even the brightest lamps can’t eliminate. The best horror movies are far more unnerving than outright scary or nasty. In this article, we have illustrated the 10 horror movies of all time.

    A scene from the movie Conjuring (2013) reminds me of my nervous breakdown and shattering into pain. Stimulated by the events that are true of the experience of real-life paranormal detectives Ed and Lorraine Warren.

    While recalling the dreadful scenes from Conjuring, another horror movie struck my mind, called Insidious( 2010). James Wan and Patrick Wilson came together for the movie Conjuring, they also collaborated for Insidious. The movie depicts a young child who slips into a coma and starts to channel a wicked spirit.

    An awful horror movie incident that rundowns the nerves is featured in the film Sinister released in 2012. The storyline propagates on a potentially supernatural killer and the disappearance of multiple children. The movie has some truly terrifying, stressful and horrific scenes.

    The fear of clowns depicted in the movie IT released in 2017  has been given a horrendous twist with an image of clowns being the scariest. It is an adaptation of Stephen King’s novel and is considered one of the best.

    Scream (1996), the movie is a horror mystery, features a girl after the killing of her mother, is threatened by a new killer, who targets the girl and her friends by exploiting her through the use of horror films as a part of a destructive game.

    The Cabin in the Woods, a 2012 movie is an exceptional movie that is capable of scaring the person at times while largely conforming as one of the genre’s best-crafted expositions.

    The Innocents, 1961 is one of the best gothic chillers ever made. It depicts a young governess with a passion for children as she finds herself in a difficult new location, caring for two orphaned children whose wealthy uncle has no room in his heart for family members.

    The Witch, a 2016 released movie is solely focused on gravitas: prayers, fasting, and terror. This is the terror that stimulates the film’s horror, making us believe that God has undoubtedly abandoned the people on the outskirts of society, on the edge of the unknown.

    Raw, featured in 2016 is an unabashed acknowledgement of Justine’s harrowing development. Raw’s horrors are as much about exposed and bloodied flesh as they are about fear of feminine sexuality, family legacies, popularity politics and insecurity of self-government.

    Paranormal Activity, 2007 is a wonderful example that gradually creates tension and raises the audience’s blood pressure with its horrific depiction of the unusual paranormal activities.

    Quite terrifying, these movies deliver the best horror experience while sitting in front of the screen and don’t let you sleep peacefully. Thus, these can be cited among the top 10 horror movies of all time.

  •  Best Facial for Bridal glow At Home

     Best Facial for Bridal glow At Home

    Everyone wants their skin to glow and look clean and clear. A wedding is all about officially beginning one’s happily- ever after story. Nevertheless, wouldn’t one rather appear healthy and radiant than washed out and stressed? This article will assist you to make the complicated shift from routine skincare to bridal skincare.

    Let’s have a  look at how we can arrange the best facial for a bridal glow at home.

     

    To get a bridal glow one should start with cleansing their skin using a cleanser or some milk. Massage it into your skin gently for at least 30 seconds. This will ensure a clean state for the products that follow, allowing them to penetrate the skin optimally and produce better effects.

     

    The next imperative step is to exfoliate. To prevent blackheads, one should go for regular exfoliation. By buffing away dead skin cells, exfoliation will help reveal new skin cells, reducing clogged pores and resulting in fewer outbreaks. Additionally, it improves the absorption of other creams. A good face scrub would be recommended for exfoliation and to get healthy skin.

     

    After exfoliation, the use of a facial mask is suggested for dramatic results in a limited time. Simply put up on a face mask that suits you, curl up with a good book, and relax for 10 minutes. One can prepare a homemade facial mask using sandalwood or tomatoes or honey and lemon. The enriching qualities of these natural ingredients would deeply enhance the skin and bring out a long-lasting glow by preventing the skin from becoming dampened.

     

    To give the skin an unmatchable bounce, one wouldn’t skip using a toner and moisturizer. If you are willing to go the extra mile, invest in a good toner and moisturizer to give skin the extra attention it deserves. Massage for at least 3 minutes with face oil or cream to nourish the deepest layers of the skin and release the stress and crumples out of the skin.

     

    Using some of the good bridal facial kits might give you the results one desires, but it is also crucial for the skin to get the benefits from natural ingredients such as almonds, sandalwood, tomatoes, honey, milk and lemon. Therefore, while considering the best-suited creams and moisturizers for your skin, one must take into consideration natural ingredients that would add the feather to the cap.

     

    Giving yourself a facial is a gorgeous form of self-love, while it is preferable to have your facial done by a professional, a home facial is still an excellent option to increase the bridal skincare routine at home. By following the steps that have been mentioned in this article, one can ensure the best facial for a bridal glow at home.

     

  • Top 10 Valentine’s Day Comedy Movies

    Top 10 Valentine’s Day Comedy Movies

    For decades, these comedies have been enjoyed by audiences of every age group to date. So grab your Valentine and settle back for a screening of one of these wonderful flicks.

    Social Animals(2018)

    When his wife insists that he find a new girlfriend, Paul meets Zoe, and the two begin a strange relationship. Most relationships don’t start well, and there’s a lot of misunderstanding and struggle along the way to happiness.

    Man Up(2015)

    Most characters meet at a party, at work, or on a blind date in romcoms. Nancy isn’t the lady Jack is intends to meet in this film, but she pretends to be, so that she may spend some time interacting with him and try to get to know him.

    When Harry Met Sally(1989)

    It is one of those iconic romantic comedies that has left its mark in the minds of its viewers. This film stars Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal and features a love story devoid of regularly seen cliches, which makes it even more likable and evergreen.

    10 Things I Hate About You(1999)

    This young romance comedy is ideal for a quiet day at home. It is based on the play Taming of the Shrew by Shakespeare. All love the light romantic scenes between Ledger’s Patrick and Katl. However, the most loved part of the movie is when Patrick sings “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” for Kat on the football field.

    Love Actually(2003)

    The Richard Curtis-directed film is a series of stories with an ensemble cast that emphasizes the theme of feel-good romance. The cast includes some big names like Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, and Alan Rickman.

    Pretty Woman(1990)

    Richard Gere plays a man from the upper-class milieu, while Julia Roberts, the local rom-com specialist, plays a lady from the streets who can scrounge for a few more dollars. But then, when cupid knocks, we’re in there for a classic rom-com.

    Four Weddings and a Funeral(1994)

    This British romantic comedy is just perfect and showcases many weddings and a funeral. Despite the dubious title, the manner this film opted to tie up the love saga of its stars was innovative at the time.

    Friends With Kids (2011)

    Julie and Jason are watching all their best friends establish families. Although Jason and Julie have an evident connection, it takes them a long time to realize that they should be one. The film is whimsical and wacky, acknowledging that relationships evolve with time and nothing is ever flawless.

    Turner & Hooch (1989)

    This film follows a police officer who pairs up with Hooch, a drooling Bordeaux Mastiff. When the two friends, Hanks and Hooch, are combined, mayhem erupts, and even the most mundane jobs become hilarious catastrophes.

    Someone Great (2019)

    The movie is about the aftermath of a tragic breakup, as well as a charming love letter to long-term friendships. The unexpected breakup led Jenny to reconsider her options. Jenny, however, came out stronger than before and was supported by her friends all through it.