How to Recover Deleted SVG Files

In the field of digital design and graphics, SVG files have become increasingly popular due to their ability to scale without losing quality and are widely used for icons, illustrations, logos, and more.

However, accidental deletions or file corruptions can occur, leading to the loss of important SVG files. Don't worry about it too much. We will describe 5 methods to recover deleted SVG files below, from whichyou can get the best one.

What Are SVG Files?

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) files, introduced in 2001, are XML-based vector image files that define two-dimensional vector graphics. It means SVG files are composed of multiple points, lines, curves, and other shapes, and are put together using math equations.

One of the biggest advantages of SVG graphics is to be scaled infinitely without compromising their quality, regardless of the screen size or resolution. It has a smaller size & can be easily modified, supports certain types of animations, and is programmable.

How to Recover Deleted SVG Files Successfully

Recovering deleted SVG files poses challenges due to the unique nature of vector graphics. Unlike traditional image formats, where fragments of the image might still be recoverable, SVG files require more specialized methods for restoration.

Way 1: Check the Recycle Bin Folder

On the Windows operating system, deleted files often end up in the Recycle Bin folder, from which they can be easily restored.

Step 1. Open the Recycle Bin folder from the desktop.

Step 2. Locate the SVG files, right-click on them, and select Restore. The deleted files will be restored to their original location.

Way 2: Recover Deleted SVG with Software

If you still cannot find your SVG files, they may have been deleted permanently. You could consider using professional file recovery software like AOMEI FastRecovery to scan your disk and recover deleted SVG files completely without losing quality. You can even preview files before recovery.

AOMEI FastRecovery

Best File Recovery Software for Windows

• Recover deleted SVG files as well as X3F/JPEG/SVG/HEIF images, AVI/MP4/MPG videos, DOC/DOCX/TXT/XLXS documents, etc over 1000+ formats.
• It has a free edition that can recover data up to 500MB.
• Integratea quick & deep scan to search all recoverable data.
• Preview files before recovering.
• Selectively recover files instead of all.
• Retrieve deleted files in any scenario, such as accidental deletion, disk formatting, virus infection, etc.
• Compatible with internal or external disk, USB drive, SD card, etc., as well as FAT32, exFAT, NTFS, and ReFS file systems.

Download Freeware Win 11/10/8/7/Sever

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In addition, the software does not require technical expertise and is friendly to novices, making the recovery process seamless.

Step 1. Scan the disk for SVG files

Launch this professional data recovery software - AOMEI FastRecovery. Hover the mouse over the drive saved deleted files before, and click Scan.

Step 2. Filter and preview SVG files

It will run Quick Scan automatically to find all the deleted or lost files, including the SVG images. You can find SVG images under the Type section. Or directly search .svg in the search box to locate them quickly. 

Step 3. Start SVG file recovery

Select your desired files and then click Recover to start SVG file recovery. Please select a location to save the recovered files. 

In addition, you can still use this software to recover different file types, such as recover Word documents, recover deleted M2TS videos, etc.

Way 3: Recover SVG from Illustrator AutoSave 

If you use Adobe Illustrator to create SVG files, there is a chance to recover from it. Like other software, it has a built-in auto-save feature, which will save a copy of your SVG files automatically.

Just go to the default location: C:\User\App Data\Roaming\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator\Adoble Illustrator settings\data recovery and check if there are any deleted SVG files from Adobe.

Way 4: Restore SVG Files from Backup

Regularly backing up your important files with File History is essential, as it gives you a chance to restore them quickly. Be sure you enable them before losing data and your files are saved in the user folder.

Step 1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security and click File History.

Step 2. Click Restore personal files. It will open the file history recovery window.

Step 3. Click the left arrow to locate your deleted files, and click the Restore button to restore deleted files from backup.

Alternatively, click the Settings icon, choose "Restore to", and choose a different location to save the recovered photos.

Way 5: Seek Professional Data Recovery Services

If the data is overwritten or the data recovery software or DIY methods fail, it is best to consult a professional data recovery service, such as CBL, Ontrack, SalvageData, etc.

• They always hire experienced specialists and have advanced equipment for more complex recovery tasks.
• Moreover, every attempt reduces the success rate of data recovery.
• Of course, the price is high. It usually depends on the damage severity, time elapsed, and recovery difficulty.

So, before contacting them, please learn as much as you can and be sure that your SVG files are very important.

How to create and open SVG files

In fact, you can create SVG files completely through Notepad or similar text editors, but you’ll have to be very familiar with this file type and graphic design. Of course, you can use Adobe Illustrator, Sketch, Core Draw, or more commonly used programs, or perhaps Inkscape if you’re looking for free software.

To view created SVG files, just locate the SVG files, right-click them, select Open with, and select the compatible options, such as Google Chrome, Apple Safari, default photo viewers, etc. Or directly drag it to your browser and drop it into the empty area.

Tips to Prevent SVG File Loss

You may not want to lose any SVG files, but unexpected errors occur sometimes, resulting in data loss. To prevent further file loss, you need to take some preventive measures:

1. Be Cautious with Deletion

Double-check the selected files before confirming the deletion action. This minimizes the chances of accidental deletion. Or be sure you use the quick format method while formatting.

2. Scan Your Disk for Viruses

A virus or malware infection is a common cause of file deletion. To avoid this, you’d better enable the built-in Windows Defender or third-party antivirus software to scan your disk, especially when there are any new installations or changes.

3. Enable the Adobe Auto-Save Feature

Adobe is one of the most common software to create SVG files, and it offers users an Auto-Save feature to back them up automatically. You can set it up as follows:

• Launch Adobe Illustrator. Go to Edit > Preferences > File Handling.
• In File Save Options, check Automatically Save Recovery Data Entry Every and select the time interval, from 30 seconds to 1 hour.
• Check the default data recovery location. To change it, click Choose and select a new one.
• Select Clipboard Handling and check Include SVG Code. You can also tick PDF and AICB options. Then, click OK.

4. Backup SVG Files Regularly

Using free Windows backup software like AOMEI Backupper Standard to back up SVG files directly is also a good choice. And it’s more flexible and feature-rich.

You can set a scheduled task, such as daily, weekly, monthly, etc, and backup specific partitions or the entire disk containing SVG files.

Conclusion

Accidental deletion of SVG files can be frustrating and lead to project disruption. This article explores various ways to recover deleted SVG files, of which using data recovery software is the most effective method. In comparison, it is more cost-effective than data recovery services.

Remember, prevention is key, so make sure to back up your SVGfiles regularly. You can choose to enable the Auto-Save feature in Adobe, and more flexibly, try third-party file backup software like AOMEI Backupper Standard.

FAQs

1. Can I recover permanently deleted SVG files?

In most cases, recovering permanently deleted files is challenging. However, it's worth attempting data recovery software or consulting professionals for assistance.

2. Is it possible to recover corrupted SVG files?

Depending on the level of corruption, some data recovery tools may help retrieve parts of the SVG file. However, full restoration may not always be possible.

3. Can I recover SVG files from a formatted hard drive?

Yes, data recovery services can often retrieve files from formatted hard drives, including SVG files