Overview
To restore Office 365 files, you can recover them from the Recycle Bin for recently deleted files, restore previous versions of a document through the version history, or use the "Restore this library" feature in SharePoint for a larger set of files. For full account recovery, an administrator can use the Microsoft 365 Backup feature in the admin center.
Step by Step Guide
Recover from the Recycle Bin (deleted files)
- OneDrive: Access the OneDrive website, navigate to the "Recycle bin" via the left panel, and select the files you wish to recover by checking the box beside them. Then, click "Restore" in the top bar. Note that for personal accounts, items are permanently removed after 30 days.
- Outlook: Right-click on the "Deleted Items" folder, select "Recover Deleted Items," then pick the items you want to restore and click "Recover." The restored items will return to their original locations.
Restore a previous version of a document
- In a browser: Right-click on the document and choose "Version history." Select the desired version, then click "Restore."
- In the desktop app: Navigate to File > Version History to view previous document versions. Open the version you want and click "Restore."
Restore a library (SharePoint and Teams)
- Access the document library via your browser.
- Click on the Settings gear icon in the top right corner and choose "Restore this library."
- Select a date and time from the dropdown to revert the library to that particular state.
- Click "Restore," and once complete, return to the Documents view.
Restore an entire OneDrive account (admin)
- Log into the Microsoft 365 admin center and navigate to the Microsoft 365 Backup page.
- Select "Restore" in the OneDrive section.
- Choose the OneDrive accounts to restore and select the preferred date and time from the backup.
- Review the designated restore point and select "Restore OneDrive accounts."
Restore an unsaved document (Word)
- Launch Word and navigate to File > Info.
- Select "Manage Documents" and then choose "Recover Unsaved Documents."
- Click the desired document from the list and click "Open" to recover it.
Additional Information
Need additional information or assistance? Call the IT Help Desk at 979-830-4357 (HELP) or contact the IT Help Desk Chat Line.