Using the recycle bin

In short: Deleted files first land in the recycle bin and can be restored there. Only when you empty the bin are they really gone.

In more detail: The recycle bin is a safety net against mistakes. It takes up disk space, so you should empty it now and then. Files from USB sticks or network drives are often deleted directly and permanently.

In Depth

• Deleting: Select the file → Delete key.
• Restoring: Open the bin → right-click the file → Restore.
• Deleting permanently: Shift + Delete (no bin, no confirmation).
• Emptying: Right-click the bin → Empty Recycle Bin.
• Sensitive data: Even “deleted” data can be recovered with special software. Wipe the disk securely before passing on a device.
• Mac: The bin is in the Dock.

See also: Backups for beginners, Understanding files and folders