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Short answer
To trace a rename or move, look in File Timeline for an event it recorded. To get deleted contents or an older saved version back, you need a backup or, where appropriate, the Recycle Bin. File Timeline keeps activity records, not copies of your documents.
This guide covers File Timeline. Check requirements and download options before you begin.
Before you start
- File Timeline for observed activity, or a previously configured backup for recoverable copies.
- Access to the relevant folder and, for restoration, its backup location.
Start here
Choose the question you need to answer
For 'Where did I move my file?', search its earlier name in File Timeline if the folder was being observed. For 'Can I get my old document back?', check the backup that covered it or the Recycle Bin.
Check the recorded location
Open the event and read Details. Use Show in folder only when the current location is available. The event itself cannot restore the document.
Find a backed-up version
For Windows File History, use File Explorer to right-click the folder that used to contain the file and select Restore previous versions. Choose the version for the date you need. Expand Open and select Open in File History to inspect it. To keep a current version safe, expand Restore and choose Restore to... to use a separate location. Check that destination before restoring.
Verify the restored copy
Open the restored file and check its contents before relying on it. For future protection, confirm the folder is included in your backup and try restoring a harmless sample.
Check your result
- You know whether you need an activity record or recoverable contents.
- The backup contains the intended file, not just a record of its name.
- Your observed scope and backup scope have each been checked.
What each one keeps
File Timeline keeps recorded names, paths and activity. Windows File History is a separate Windows backup feature that can keep copies of file contents when it has been set up.
Clearing File Timeline activity removes those searchable records. It does not delete the files that were observed.
Retention and gaps
A longer timeline retention period does not create older file versions. Activity from before setup, outside scope or during observation interruptions may be absent.
A backup also has its own scope, schedule and retention. A filename in a timeline is not evidence that any backup captured it.