How to Recover Files Deleted by Robocopy /Mir(2 Ways)

When it comes to copying files between destinations, the Robocopy command line tool surpasses the functionality of Windows Explorer or the copy command, offering enhanced flexibility. A frequently utilized parameter in Robocopy is /mir. However, users may encounter instances where this parameter inadvertently results in the deletion of files from the destination folder. In the subsequent sections, we'll delve into the reasons behind this occurrence and explore strategies for recovering deleted files by Robocopy /mic.

HowRobocopy Wipes Data

Robocopy, derived from "Robust File Copy," is a command-line utility primarily designed for copying folders between different destinations. Renowned for its versatility, it offers a plethora of parameters and switches, making it a favorite tool among IT professionals. To explore the full range of options available with Robocopy, you can refer to Microsoft's dedicated Robocopy page or simply execute the Robocopy /? command in CMD for a comprehensive list of modifiers and their functions.

Now, let's address how this ostensibly innocuous file-copying tool can inadvertently wipe your data. The culprit often lies in the /mir parameter, instructing Windows to mirror both the source and destination folders. Consequently, any files present in the destination but not in the source will be promptly removed. In essence, to avoid data loss, the folders must precisely match, devoid of any additional files or directories.

How to Recover Files Deleted by Robocopy /Mir Command

Recovering files deleted by the Robocopy /mir command is entirely feasible with the aid of professional data recovery software and previously saved backups. Here, I'll guide you through the specific steps involved in the data recovery process.

Method 1: Utilizing Data Recovery Software

Third-party data recovery tools emerge as the optimal choice for recovering files inadvertently deleted by the Robocopy /mir command. While various options abound on the internet, it's prudent to select a tool with a commendable reputation for efficacy, user-friendliness, and compatibility with network drives—a crucial consideration given robocopy's frequent utilization in network file transfers.

Selecting MyRecover among the array of secure data recovery services offers numerous compelling reasons. This versatile tool seamlessly operates across all Windows system versions, ensuring compatibility and reliability. Moreover, it boasts the capability to restore files from a diverse range of data storage devices, including recovering deleted files from external hard drives, SD cards, memory cards, USB sticks, and more.

• Comprehensive Format Support: MyRecover facilitates the recovery of over 200 file formats, like documents, spreadsheets, photos, videos, and audio files across all storage mediums.
• Advanced Scanning Capabilities: With Quick & Deep Scan options, MyRecover employs an advanced scanning method to thoroughly search for recoverable files. Users can efficiently filter deleted or lost files deleted by Robocopy /mir based on filename, saved path, date, or size, streamlining the recovery process.
• File System Compatibility: MyRecover is adept at handling NTFS, FAT32, exFAT, and ReFS file systems, ensuring seamless functionality across various Windows operating systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Server editions.

To initiate the file recovery process using MyRecover, follow these simple steps:

1. Run MyRecover: Install and launch MyRecover on your PC.

2. Initiate Scan: Hover over the hard drive containing the target folder and commence scanning by clicking on "Scan."

3. Filter and Preview: Once scanning is underway, utilize the Quick Scan & Deep Scan functionalities to identify deleted or lost files. Employ filters such as file type, date modified, and size to streamline the search process.

4. Select and Recover: Choose the desired videos for recovery and click on "Recover X Files."

By adhering to these straightforward steps, users can efficiently recover files deleted by the Robocopy /Mir command using MyRecover.

Method 2: Utilizing File History for File Recovery

Another effective approach to recovering files deleted by the Robocopy /Mir command involves leveraging the built-in File History feature in Windows. This free data backup utility seamlessly integrates into the Windows ecosystem, automatically backing up Windows libraries such as Desktop, Download, Music, and Pictures, among others. Additionally, users have the flexibility to recover files from backup in Windows.

Here's a step-by-step guide to restoring files using File History:

1. Access Control Panel: Begin by typing "Control Panel" into the Windows search box and pressing Enter to open the Control Panel window.

2. Navigate to File History: Within the Control Panel interface, locate and select "File History" if you're viewing the Control Panel in Large icons mode from the View by menu.

3. Choose Restore personal files: From the options available in the left pane, opt for "Restore personal files."

4. Select Files for Restoration: You'll be presented with a list of backed-up files. Locate the specific file you wish to recover and click on the green restore button to initiate the file recovery process.

By following these straightforward steps and leveraging the capabilities of File History, users can effectively restore files that were inadvertently deleted by the Robocopy /Mir command.

Bonus Tip: Safeguard Your Files from Robocopy Command Deletions

When it comes to safeguarding your data, proactive measures often prove more efficient than reactive recovery efforts. Here are three strategies to prevent files from being inadvertently deleted by the Robocopy command:

Way 1: Modify the Destination Folder

Opting for a simple yet effective approach, consider altering the destination folder each time you employ the Robocopy /mir command. Selecting an empty folder or one devoid of critical files as the destination ensures minimal risk of data loss or overwrite.

Way 2: Implement Additional Parameters

Enhance control over file transfers by incorporating supplementary parameters after the Robocopy command. These parameters serve to exclude specific files or conditions, thereby mitigating the risk of unintended deletions:

• /XO: Exclude older files from the transfer process. If a file exists in the destination folder but a newer version is present in the source, the older file will be replaced by the newer one without being overwritten.
• /XX: Exclude extra files present solely in the destination folder. By utilizing this parameter, you can safeguard important files or those absent in the source folder from deletion during the copying process.

By adopting these preventative measures, users can effectively minimize the likelihood of files being deleted by the Robocopy command, ensuring the integrity and security of their data.

In Summary

In summary, the versatility and extensive adaptability of the Robocopy tool present both advantages and potential pitfalls. Its multitude of parameters can sometimes pose a challenge in comprehension. One such parameter, /mir, warrants particular caution as its misuse can lead to the unintended deletion of files in the destination directory.

Fortunately, the use of proficient data recovery software can assist in retrieving lost files. To mitigate the risk of data loss stemming from Robocopy operations, it is advisable to employ parameters more suited to the task at hand.