On this page
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.
Using the free trial? Its seven-day period starts at the first valid folder observation and continues during pauses or closure. Existing history remains readable after expiry, subject to its normal retention period. How the free trial works.
Follow these steps
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.
Compare the previous name with the current location. Enlarge image. - Previous location keeps the earlier filename.
- Current location shows the renamed file.
Find a backed-up version
For Windows File History, right-click the former folder in File Explorer and choose Restore previous versions. Choose a date and inspect it with Open → Open in File History. Use Restore → Restore to... for a separate destination.
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.
If you need more help
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 or restart the trial. After trial expiry, View existing history still gives access to records within the usual retention period; new observation requires full access.
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.
Need the app?
File Timeline. Check requirements and download options.