Resolved: No Previous Versions Found in File Recovery

Step 1: Re-enable File History

To regain access to previous versions of your files, it’s important to ensure that the File History feature is enabled on your system. Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type gpedit.msc and click OK to open the Group Policy Editor.
3. Navigate to: Computer Configuration\ Administrative Templates\ Windows Components\File History
4. Select File History from the left panel.
5. Double-click on the Turn off File History policy.
6. Select either Enabled or Disabled based on your preference.
7. Click Apply to save your settings, then click OK.

Pro Tip: After re-enabling File History, check the settings to ensure the backup location is correct.

Step 2: Restart the File History Service

Restarting the File History service can often solve connection issues. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press Windows + S to open the search bar.
2. Type services and click on the result to open the Services window.
3. Locate and double-click on File History Service to open its properties.
4. Set the Startup type to Automatic.
5. If the service isn’t running, click the Start button.
6. Click Apply and OK to save changes.
7. Repeat the above steps for the Windows Search Service to ensure all services are correctly set up.

Pro Tip: If you’re still facing issues, consider restarting your computer to refresh all services.

Step 3: Utilize Windows Backup

In case previous versions are inaccessible, using Windows Backup can help in restoring files. Here’s how:

1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and hit Open.
2. Navigate to Backup and Restore (Windows 7) located under System and Security.
3. Click on the Set up backup button.
4. Select your Backup destination and click Next.
5. Choose your preferred backup option and click Next.
6. Adjust the schedule as needed and select Save settings and run backup.

Pro Tip: Regularly create backups to avoid losing important files in the future.

Step 4: Restore from OneDrive

If your files were stored in OneDrive, restoring versions is straightforward:

1. Open your browser and navigate to OneDrive.com.
2. Right-click on the file you need to restore.
3. Select Version history to see all modifications made.
4. Choose the version you’d like to restore and click Restore.
5. To check the content before restoring, use the Open File option or download the version to your PC.

Pro Tip: Utilize version history to keep track of changes made to files easily.

Step 5: Perform a System Restore

If you still cannot recover your files, a system restore may help:

1. Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and click Open.
2. Select Large icons as the view mode, and then click on Recovery.
3. Click on Open System Restore.
4. Select Choose a different restore point and click Next.
5. Choose your desired restore point and click Next.
6. Finally, click Finish, and let Windows restart the system with the restored settings.

Pro Tip: Make regular system restore points to ensure you can revert to stable configurations when conflicts arise.

Step 6: Explore Alternative Backup Solutions

If File History fails to meet your needs, consider third-party backup solutions:

Reliable cloud backup options provide cross-platform compatibility and are useful for seamless data synchronization across devices.

Pro Tip: Always check your backup status regularly to avoid any data loss during emergencies.

What should I do if File History doesn’t recognize my backup drive?

Can I recover previous versions of files without File History enabled?