Storage Sense Deletes Downloaded Files? Instant Fixes

This guide helps recover files deleted by Windows Storage Sense and prevents future deletions. Storage Sense, while useful for freeing disk space, sometimes mistakenly removes downloaded files. This article provides solutions to retrieve lost files and disable this unwanted behavior.

Recovering Lost Files

Files deleted by Storage Sense bypass the Recycle Bin. Data recovery software is needed. MiniTool Power Data Recovery is recommended. It can restore various file types.

1. Download and launch MiniTool Power Data Recovery. Select the "Downloads" folder for scanning.

2. Browse the scan results, using filters to locate specific files. Preview files before recovery.

3. Select files for recovery and choose a different save location to avoid overwriting.

For recovering more than 1GB, consider a paid version of MiniTool Power Data Recovery.

Preventing Future Deletions

Two methods prevent Storage Sense from automatically deleting downloaded files:

Method 1: Modifying Windows Settings

1. Open Windows Settings (Win I).
2. Navigate to System > Storage.
3. Click "Configure Storage Sense or run it now".
4. Under "Temporary Files," select "Never" from the dropdown menu for "Delete files in my Downloads folder if they haven’t been opened for more than".
5. Optionally, uncheck "Delete temporary files that my apps aren’t using" to prevent Recycle Bin deletions.

Method 2: Editing the Windows Registry

This method requires caution. Incorrect registry edits can damage your system.

1. Open the Run window (Win R).
2. Type regedit and press Enter.
3. Navigate to ComputerHKEY_CURRENT_USERSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionStorageSenseParametersStoragePolicy.
4. Double-click the 32 DWORD value (or create one if it doesn't exist) and change its Value data to 0.

5. Click OK to save changes.

Alternative: Third-Party Junk File Cleaners

Consider alternative junk file cleaners like MiniTool System Booster if you still wish to use Storage Sense's other features.

This comprehensive guide ensures you can both recover lost files and prevent Storage Sense from deleting your downloads in the future.

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