Losing files on your WD Elements external hard drive can be a frustrating experience, especially when you believe they are permanently deleted. But don’t panic — in many cases, it’s possible to recover deleted files in Windows 10, even from an external storage device like WD Elements.
In this guide, we’ll explain the causes of permanent file loss, and show you step-by-step methods to recover your deleted data safely and effectively.
What Does "Permanently Deleted" Mean?
When you delete a file from your internal drive in Windows 10, it typically goes to the Recycle Bin. However, when files are deleted from an external drive like WD Elements, they bypass the Recycle Bin and are immediately marked as free space.
This doesn’t mean the files are gone — it only means Windows can overwrite them. Until that happens, the data still exists and can be recovered using specialized tools.
Causes of Permanent File Deletion on WD Elements Drive
Accidental deletion using Shift + Delete
Formatting the drive unintentionally
File system corruption
Virus or malware attacks
Power failures or unsafe removal
Each of these scenarios can make your data inaccessible, but not necessarily unrecoverable.
Best Methods to Recover Permanently Deleted Files
1. Use File History or Backup
If you had File History or another backup system enabled before deletion, you can restore files:
Go to Control Panel > File History.
Click Restore personal files.
Browse for the desired folder or file and click Restore.
Unfortunately, most users don’t have File History enabled — which brings us to software recovery.
2. Use Data Recovery Software
If no backup exists, third-party recovery tools are your best option. Popular ones include:
Recuva (free and easy to use)
EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
Disk Drill
R-Studio (for advanced users)
Here’s how to use a recovery tool:
Stop using the WD Elements drive immediately to prevent overwriting deleted data.
Download and install the recovery software on your internal drive (not the WD drive).
Launch the tool and scan the WD Elements drive.
Preview the recoverable files.
Select the ones you want and save them to a different location (not the same drive).
These tools can often recover files lost due to deletion, formatting, or corruption.
3. Try Windows File Recovery Tool (Command Line)
For tech-savvy users, Microsoft offers Windows File Recovery, a free command-line tool from the Microsoft Store. It supports recovery from NTFS and exFAT file systems.
Command example:
This would recover .docx files from drive D: (your WD drive) to E: (recovery destination).
Final Thoughts
Permanently deleted files from a WD Elements external drive can often be recovered — as long as you act quickly and avoid using the drive until recovery is complete. Whether you use recovery software or built-in tools like File History or Windows File Recovery, there’s a good chance you can retrieve your important documents, photos, and more.
To prevent future data loss, always back up your files and safely eject your external drive. If the recovery process feels overwhelming, consider reaching out to a data recovery professional.