How to Recover Deleted Files Quarantined By Antivirus Software?

17 minutes read

If you have accidentally deleted files or if your antivirus software has mistakenly quarantined important files, you might be wondering how to recover them. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Check the antivirus software quarantine folder: Most antivirus programs have a quarantine folder where they store potentially harmful files. This folder acts as a temporary storage for deleted or quarantined files. Open your antivirus software and navigate to its quarantine folder to see if your deleted files are there.
  2. Restore from quarantine: If you find your deleted files in the antivirus software quarantine folder, you may be able to restore them directly from there. Select the files you want to recover and look for the option to restore or recover them. This process will vary depending on the antivirus software you are using.
  3. Examine the recycle bin: If you have deleted files and they are not in the antivirus quarantine folder, check your computer's recycle bin. Sometimes, deleted files are not immediately removed from your system and are instead moved to the recycle bin. Locate the files you want to recover, right-click on them, and choose the "Restore" option. This will put the files back to their original location.
  4. Utilize file recovery software: If you cannot find your deleted files in the antivirus quarantine folder or the recycle bin, you can try using third-party file recovery software. There are numerous software options available, such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Disk Drill. Download and install one of these programs, follow the provided instructions, and scan your computer for deleted files. If the software identifies your files, you can typically restore them with a few clicks.
  5. Check backup sources: If you regularly backup your files, check your backup sources for the deleted or quarantined files. This may include external hard drives, cloud storage services, or network drives. Restore the files from your backup to recover them.
  6. Contact antivirus support: In cases where you are unable to recover your deleted files on your own, or if you suspect that your antivirus software made a mistake, contact the customer support for your specific antivirus program. They should be able to guide you through the process of recovering your files or offer further assistance.


Note that the success of the recovery process depends on various factors, such as the antivirus software used, the time elapsed since deletion, and the activity on your computer after the deletion. It is always recommended to take immediate action and not use your computer extensively before attempting to recover the deleted files.

Best Antivirus Software in October 2024

1
McAfee Total Protection 2024 Ready | Unlimited Devices | Cybersecurity Software Includes Antivirus, Secure VPN, Password Manager, Dark Web Monitoring | Download

Rating is 5 out of 5

McAfee Total Protection 2024 Ready | Unlimited Devices | Cybersecurity Software Includes Antivirus, Secure VPN, Password Manager, Dark Web Monitoring | Download

  • MCAFEE TOTAL PROTECTION IS ALL-IN-ONE PROTECTION – antivirus, security, identity, and privacy protection for all your devices for one year​
  • SECURE VPN – Stay private and secure on public Wi-Fi with VPN that can connect automatically when you need it
  • PARENTAL CONTROLS - Help protect your kids from inappropriate online behavior, apps, and content, manage screen time, get location-based alerts, and guide them to build good digital habits
  • MONITOR UP TO 10 EMAILS ON THE DARK WEB - If your info is found we'll notify you so you can act before your info ends up in the wrong hands
  • CHECK THE HEALTH OF YOUR ONLINE PROTECTION – our industry-first Protection Score will identify weak spots and guide you to improve your security​
  • PASSWORD MANAGER - Secure your accounts by generating and storing complex passwords and auto-filling your info for faster logins across devices
  • AWARD WINNING ANTIVIRUS - Protect all your personal devices and the info on them from the latest threats
2
Norton 360 Premium, 2024 Ready, Antivirus software for 10 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud Backup & Dark Web Monitoring [Download]

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Norton 360 Premium, 2024 Ready, Antivirus software for 10 Devices with Auto Renewal - Includes VPN, PC Cloud Backup & Dark Web Monitoring [Download]

  • ONGOING PROTECTION Download instantly & install protection for up to 10 PCs, Macs, iOS or Android devices in minutes!
  • REAL-TIME THREAT PROTECTION Advanced security protects against existing and emerging malware threats, including ransomware and viruses, and it won’t slow down your device performance
  • SECURE VPN Browse anonymously and securely with a no-log VPN while using public Wi-Fi Add bank-grade encryption to help keep your information like passwords and bank details secure and private
  • DARK WEB MONITORING will monitor and notify you if we find your personal information on the Dark Web**
  • 75GB SECURE PC CLOUD BACKUP store and help protect important files as a preventative measure to data loss due to hard drive failures, stolen devices and even ransomware***
  • PRE-PAID SUBSCRIPTION A payment method must be stored in your Norton account to activate* You won’t be charged until the prepaid term ends For new Norton subscriptions only at an introductory price
  • AUTO-RENEWAL Never have a service disruption since this subscription auto-renews annually If you do not wish to renew, you can cancel in your Norton account anytime
3
Kaspersky Total Security 2023 | 5 Devices | 1 Year | Antivirus, Secure VPN and Password Manager Included | PC/Mac/Android | Online Code

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Kaspersky Total Security 2023 | 5 Devices | 1 Year | Antivirus, Secure VPN and Password Manager Included | PC/Mac/Android | Online Code

  • PROTECTS MULTIPLE DEVICES: Stay safe at home and on the go with a single license for your PCs, Macs, and Android and iOS devices.
  • FIGHTS EVERY THREAT: Stop worrying about viruses, phishing, ransomware and tomorrow’s most advanced cyberattacks.
  • STOPS ONLINE THEFT: Shop, bank and pay securely online with extra layers of protection from our Safe Money technology.
  • PROTECTS YOUR PRIVACY: Block webcam spying, stop browser tracking and use easy VPN encryption to hide data from hackers and ISPs.
  • SAFEGUARDS YOUR IDENTITY: Stop phishing, identify dangerous files and websites, and shred important personal files.
4
Bitdefender Total Security 2024 – Complete Antivirus and Internet Security Suite – 5 Devices | 1 Year Subscription | PC/Mac | Activation Code by Mail

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Bitdefender Total Security 2024 – Complete Antivirus and Internet Security Suite – 5 Devices | 1 Year Subscription | PC/Mac | Activation Code by Mail

  • SPEED-OPTIMIZED, CROSS-PLATFORM PROTECTION: World-class antivirus security and cyber protection for Windows (Windows 7 with Service Pack 1, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11), Mac OS (Yosemite 10.10 or later), iOS (11.2 or later), and Android (5.0 or later). Organize and keep your digital life safe from hackers
  • SAFE ONLINE BANKING: A unique, dedicated browser secures your online transactions; Our Total Security product also includes 200MB per day of our new and improved Bitdefender VPN
  • ADVANCED THREAT DEFENSE: Real-Time Data Protection, Multi-Layer Malware and Ransomware Protection, Social Network Protection, Game/Movie/Work Modes, Microphone Monitor, Webcam Protection, Anti-Tracker, Phishing, Fraud, and Spam Protection, File Shredder, Parental Controls, and more
  • ECO-FRIENDLY PACKAGING: Your product-specific code is printed on a card and shipped inside a protective cardboard sleeve. Simply open packaging and scratch off security ink on the card to reveal your activation code. No more bulky box or hard-to-recycle discs
5
Malwarebytes | Amazon Exclusive | 18 Months, 2 Devices | PC, Mac, Android [Online Code]

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Malwarebytes | Amazon Exclusive | 18 Months, 2 Devices | PC, Mac, Android [Online Code]

  • Protects your identity and privacy from hackers
  • Prevents virus, spyware, and malware infections (PC and Mac only)
  • Detects and removes malware and potentially unwanted programs from a device that has already been infected
  • Protects your documents, financial files, and photos from ransomware
  • Keeps you safe from malicious and fraudulent websites (PC and Android only)
6
ESET NOD32 Antivirus | 2024 Edition | 1 Device | 1 Year | Antivirus Software | Gamer Mode | Small System Footprint | Official Download with License

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

ESET NOD32 Antivirus | 2024 Edition | 1 Device | 1 Year | Antivirus Software | Gamer Mode | Small System Footprint | Official Download with License

  • Protects you against all types of malware, including viruses, ransomware, rootkits, worms and spyware.
  • Simple reliable protection. Protects your private data from ransomware and phishing with easy-to-use internet security.
  • Light footprint & won't slow you down. Enjoy the full power of your computer. Play, work and browse the internet without slowdowns.
7
AVG Ultimate 2022 | Antivirus+Cleaner+VPN | 10 Devices, 2 Years [PC/Mac/Mobile Download]

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

AVG Ultimate 2022 | Antivirus+Cleaner+VPN | 10 Devices, 2 Years [PC/Mac/Mobile Download]

  • AVG ULTIMATE: Your all-in-one antivirus, VPN, and tuneup combo.
  • OUR BEST SECURITY: Enjoy our advanced, real-time security for your computers, tablets, and phones.
  • OUR BEST PRIVACY: Secure your privacy with powerful encryption so no one can see what you do online.
  • OUR BEST PERFORMANCE: Improve the performance of all your devices with our specialized tools.
  • OUR BEST TRACKER BLOCKER: Stop websites and advertisers from following you online.


What is antivirus quarantine?

Antivirus quarantine refers to a security feature offered by antivirus software that isolates and stores potentially malicious files or programs detected on a user's device. When the antivirus software detects a suspicious file, it may move or copy it to a quarantined area. This helps prevent the file from causing any harm until further investigation is conducted. The file is effectively isolated from the rest of the system, unable to execute or impact any other files or processes. Users can review the quarantined items and decide whether to delete or restore them. Antivirus quarantine provides an additional layer of protection to safeguard systems from potential threats.


How to recover files quarantined by Avast antivirus?

To recover files that have been quarantined by Avast antivirus, you can follow these steps:

  1. Open the Avast Antivirus software on your computer.
  2. Go to the "Protection" or "Scan" tab, depending on the version of Avast you are using.
  3. Look for the "Quarantine" or "Virus Chest" option. It is usually located in the "Scan Results" or "History" section.
  4. Once you are in the Quarantine or Virus Chest section, you will see a list of files that have been quarantined or moved to the chest.
  5. Select the files you want to recover. You can either select individual files or use the select all option if you want to recover all files.
  6. Once you have selected the files, look for the option to restore or recover the files. This option is typically an icon that looks like a downward arrow or a button labeled "Restore" or "Recover".
  7. Click on the restore or recover option to recover the selected files. Avast will move the files back to their original location on your computer.


Note: It is important to exercise caution when recovering files from quarantine as they were initially detected as threats by the antivirus software. Ensure that you fully trust the files you are recovering before restoring them.


How to recover files deleted by Norton quarantine?

If you have accidentally deleted files using Norton quarantine, there are a few steps you can take to recover them:

  1. Check the Norton quarantine folder: Open the Norton software and navigate to the Quarantine section. Look for the deleted files in the list of quarantined items. If you find the files you're looking for, select them and choose the option to restore them to their original location.
  2. Use the Norton File Recovery tool: Norton provides a specialized tool called Norton File Recovery that can potentially help you recover deleted files. Download and install the tool from the Norton website, then follow the instructions provided to scan for and recover deleted files.
  3. Check your Norton backup settings: Norton includes the option to create backups of files before they are quarantined. If you had this feature enabled, you may be able to recover the deleted files using Norton's backup and restore functionality. Open the Norton software and navigate to the Backup section to check if any backups were created. If so, follow the instructions provided to restore your files.
  4. Use third-party file recovery software: If the above methods do not work, you can try using third-party file recovery software. There are numerous options available, such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Disk Drill. Download and install one of these programs, then follow the instructions provided to scan your computer for deleted files and attempt to recover them.


Remember to avoid saving any new files or making changes to your computer's storage until you have attempted to recover the deleted files. This reduces the risk of overwriting the deleted data and increases the chances of successful recovery.


What are the risks of recovering quarantined files?

There are several risks associated with recovering quarantined files:

  1. Malicious software: Quarantined files are typically identified as potential threats to your system's security. Recovering these files may reintroduce malware or other malicious software into your system, potentially causing further damage or compromising your personal and sensitive data.
  2. False positives: Antivirus or security software may sometimes identify legitimate files as potential threats and quarantine them. Recovering these files without proper verification could lead to the restoration of potentially harmful content.
  3. System instability: Quarantined files are often isolated because they pose a risk to the stability and functionality of your system. Restoring these files may result in crashes, errors, or performance issues, as they may still contain problematic code or conflicts with other system components.
  4. Reinfection: If you recover quarantined files that were part of an earlier malware infection, you risk reinitiating the same infection. This can happen if the underlying malware is still active on your system or if the files were not fully cleaned by your antivirus software.
  5. Data loss: In some cases, quarantined files might be damaged or incomplete due to their potential threat status. Attempting to recover these files could result in incomplete data or files that are unusable or corrupted.


To minimize these risks, it is recommended to exercise caution and consult with an IT professional or your antivirus software provider before attempting to recover quarantined files.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Whatsapp Pocket

Related Posts:

To encrypt sensitive files with antivirus software, you can follow these steps:Choose a reputable antivirus software: Look for an antivirus program that offers encryption features. There are several reliable options available in the market including Avast, Bit...
Whitelisting programs in antivirus software allows you to specify certain programs or files that you trust and want the antivirus program to exclude or ignore during scans. This can be useful in situations where you have a legitimate program that the antivirus...
Updating antivirus software definitions is crucial to keep your computer protected against the latest threats, viruses, and malware. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to update antivirus software definitions:Launch your antivirus software: Open the antivirus...