To find deleted files on Box, you can access them either within their original parent folder's trash or through your main Box Trash section. Box provides a robust recovery system to help you retrieve accidentally deleted content.
Here's how to locate your deleted files:
Method 1: Finding Deleted Files Within Their Parent Folder
This method is useful if you know the specific folder where the file or folder was originally located before deletion.
- Navigate to the Parent Folder: In the Box Web App, open the specific parent folder that contained the file or folder you wish to recover.
- Access the Trash Icon: In the library operation bar (usually located at the top or side of the folder view), click the "trash" icon.
- View Deleted Items: A list of deleted files and folders from that specific parent folder will appear, sorted by deletion time.
- Load More Items: If you don't immediately see your file, scroll to the bottom of the list and click the "more" button to load additional deleted files.
Method 2: Accessing the Global Box Trash
For a comprehensive view of all items you have deleted across your entire Box account, you can use the main Trash section.
- Go to Box.com: Log in to your Box account through a web browser.
- Locate the Trash: On the left-hand navigation sidebar, click on "Trash". This will display all the files and folders you have deleted from any location in your Box account.
- Search and Filter: Within the global Trash, you can often use search filters to narrow down the list by name, date of deletion, or original location.
Key Steps to Find Deleted Files
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Login | Access your Box account via Box.com. |
| 2 | Navigate | Go to the specific parent folder or click "Trash" in the left sidebar. |
| 3 | Locate Trash | Click the "trash" icon within a folder or the "Trash" link in the sidebar. |
| 4 | Browse/Search | Review the list of deleted items; use the "more" button or search filters if needed. |
Important Considerations for Deleted Files
- Retention Period: Box typically retains deleted items in the trash for a default period, often 90 days for most users. After this period, items are permanently removed. Account administrators can configure different retention policies.
- Permissions: You can only view and restore items that you had permission to delete. If an item was deleted by another user, and you do not have appropriate permissions, you may not see it in your trash.
- Restoring Files: To restore a file or folder, simply select it from the trash list and click the "Restore" button. The item will be returned to its original location.
- Emptying Trash: Be cautious when emptying your trash, as this action permanently deletes items, making them unrecoverable.
For more detailed information on managing your deleted content, refer to the official Box support documentation on Managing Your Trash.
