📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses a user's attempt to recover lost files after restoring their computer and replacing the C: drive with the Windows.old folder. The original poster seeks advice on how to restore these files, with a response linking to relevant Microsoft support documentation. A later contributor clarifies that Windows.old retains files temporarily after certain actions like upgrading or resetting Windows 8.1, suggesting the user may be able to recover files from it within a 28-day window. Overall, the discussion is technical and helpful, aiming to guide the user through file recovery options.

bmorgy

New Member
Joined
Aug 29, 2014
Messages
2
Thread Author #1
Hi,

So a few days ago I restored my computer in attempt to fix a few problems it was having. Unfortunately, the problem was still occurring and I no longer had any of my files. Now I am trying to replace my Local Disc (C : ) with my windows.old file to get back all the files that I lost from the restore. Is there any way I can do that?

Thanks
bmorgy
 

Solution
Have a look at this. See if it is applicable to you.
excerpt.............
If you choose to “Keep nothing” when you upgrade to Windows 8.1, or if you reset, refresh, or reinstall Windows, your personal files are temporarily saved to the Windows.old folder for 28 days (unless you formatted your hard drive before installing). If you decide you want some or all of these files back, you can usually retrieve them from this folder

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-ca/windows-8/restore-files-upgrade-windows-old

Trouble

Noob Whisperer
Joined
Nov 30, 2009
Messages
13,723
I suppose it depends on where you are currently with respect to your problem(s) and what progress you may have made up to this point.
Here is some Microsoft documentation that might help you
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/971760
 

Last edited:

Trouble

Noob Whisperer
Joined
Nov 30, 2009
Messages
13,723
No sir.... I really don't. I would expect that there would be some things that are applicable and some that may not be.
I was hoping that perhaps it might lead you to a more relevant solution perhaps by way of Google
 

davidhk129

Essential Member
Joined
May 19, 2012
Messages
1,315
Have a look at this. See if it is applicable to you.
excerpt.............
If you choose to “Keep nothing” when you upgrade to Windows 8.1, or if you reset, refresh, or reinstall Windows, your personal files are temporarily saved to the Windows.old folder for 28 days (unless you formatted your hard drive before installing). If you decide you want some or all of these files back, you can usually retrieve them from this folder

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-ca/windows-8/restore-files-upgrade-windows-old
 

Solution