Updated 26 May. 2023

Recovering SWF files on Windows and Mac

SWF recovery

Best 5 data recovery software for SWF, Shockwave Flash Movie

Disk Drill
Free version, Pro version $89
Free recovery: Free recovery - 500 MB for Windows
Download
rateDisk Drill
666762
TestDisk
Open Source
Free recovery: Freeware
Download
rateTestDisk
152488
UltData
from $45.95
Free recovery: Free recovery - 500MB
Download
rateUltData
1054581
TestDisk
Open Source
Free recovery: Freeware
Download
rateTestDisk
152488
Stellar
Free, Professional $79.99, Premium $99.99, Technician $199
Free recovery: Free scan & preview
Download
rateStellar
484261

Summary review

windows icon Our Windows version Windows 10
time icon How long we tested 3 weeks
exam icon Number of tested tools 14

3 important things to consider when choosing SWF recovery software

Look out for extra features

While a data recovery program’s retrieval capabilities are certainly its most important aspect, the extra features it brings to the table certainly add a lot of value. For example, some apps come with a drive backup feature while others allow the repair of compromised/damaged files, both of which can come in very handy.

High recovery rate

There’s no point in investing time, effort, and maybe even money into a data recovery program with mediocre chances of success. Make sure to do your research and choose one with a proven track record, making it all the more likely for you to get your lost files back.

Wide file type support

Whether it’s pictures, documents, audio, or file types, it’s a good idea to select a recovery program that supports the retrieval of a wide range of file extensions. Once you’re done recovering your files this time around, you may need to use the program again in the future for a different file type.

Simple steps to recover deleted SWF, Shockwave Flash Movie on Windows & Mac

Step 1:

With a Windows or Mac machine, download and install the software

Step 2:

Launch the software and select a disk on which to recover lost files

Step 3:

Choose Recover to begin scanning the selected disk for recoverable files

Step 4:

Choose the data you want to undelete and click the Recover button to perform the restore

3 SWF loss prevention tips

1 Tip

Back up files regularly. While backing up files can sometimes be time-consuming and a hassle, it’s a vital part of keeping important files safe from unforeseen data loss. After all, you can never tell when you might accidentally delete a file or encounter device failure. One missed backup session could set you back hours, days, or even months of work.

2 Tip

Keep work and leisure separate. It’s always a good idea to have a separate computer/laptop for work and general use. If you keep installing and uninstalling programs on a machine, it will hasten the rate at which the operating system might break down. And when it finally does become unstable, you could lose some important data in the process.

3 Tip

Keep food and drink away from your work computer. This one goes without saying, but you’d be surprised by the number of people who keep food and drinks dangerously close to their laptop or computer. No matter how careful you are, uncontrollable circumstances may occur that could cause a spill onto your machine, potentially compromising your data.

FAQ

When SWF files are deleted from a computer, they are not permanently erased just yet. So long as they’re not overwritten by new data, these files remain out of sight on the storage media and can be recovered through quality data recovery programs. Backup tools like File History, System Restore, and Timeline can also be used to recover lost data.

For Windows, if you deleted the SWF file using the Delete key or right-click > Delete command, then you should be able to find it in the Recycle Bin. On Mac, deleted X files are moved to the Trash before being deleted permanently. If your file is not present in either of these tools, you’ll need to utilize a free data recovery program.

The best way to recover SWF files from a memory card is to leverage a top-notch data recovery program, as it’s the most flexible and accessible retrieval method around. It’s worth noting, however, that this is ineffective if you used a “full” format on the card or it has become heavily damaged/compromised. For that, you’ll need to seek out a data recovery service.