File Not Found Error in Windows 10: Causes and Fixes
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Written By
Aaradhya Jain -
Approved By
Shivam Rathore -
Updated on
December 26th, 2025 - Read Time
5 minutes
User Query: I try to open a file on my Windows 10 computer, but Windows keeps showing a “File Not Found” error. The file was there before. Why is this happening, and how can I fix it?
Summary: The “File Not Found” error in Windows 10 is a common issue that many users encounter during their daily work. It typically appears when you attempt to open a document, photo, or program shortcut, but File Not Found Error in Windows 10. This can be frustrating, especially when the file contains important work or personal data. Based on real user experiences and practical troubleshooting methods, this guide explains the manual method and a professional DRS Windows Data Recovery Tool. Each method gives you a quick, reliable, and hassle-free process with no data loss.
What Does “File Not Found” Mean in Windows 10?
This error means that Windows cannot find the file at the location it expects. The file may still exist, but the system is pointing to the wrong path, or the file was deleted, moved, or renamed.
Common Causes of File Not Found Error in Windows 10
- File Was Moved or Renamed: If a file is moved to another folder or renamed, old shortcuts will stop working.
- File Was Deleted: The file may have been deleted accidentally or removed during cleanup.
- Broken Shortcut: The shortcut exists, but the original file does not.
- External Drive or Network Location Not Connected: Files stored on USB drives, external hard disks, or network locations may not be accessible.
- Malware or Antivirus Action: Security software may quarantine or remove files it considers unsafe.
- Corrupted System Files: Windows system corruption can also cause file path issues.
Real-Life Scenario: File Not Found Error in Windows 10 Error
A small business owner in the US reported that client invoices stored on their desktop suddenly stopped opening. Each time they clicked the file, Windows displayed “File Not Found.” After investigating, they discovered that a system cleanup had moved the files. Once they restored the files to the correct location, everything worked again. This is a very common situation and is easy to fix once you understand the cause.
Manual Methods to Resolve File Not Found Windows 10 Error
The manual methods are available to resolve the File Not Found error in Windows 10 when the issue is related to file location or shortcuts.
Method 1: Search for the File to Repair File Not Found Windows 10 Error
- Firstly, click the Windows Search bar.
- Then, enter the file name.
- If found, open it or move it back to the original location.
Method 2: Check the Recycle Bin
- First, open the Recycle Bin.
- Now, locate the missing file.
- Right-click and select Restore.
Method 3: Fix or Recreate the Shortcut
- Right-click the shortcut showing the error.
- After that, choose Properties.
- Verify the Target path.
- Update it or create a new shortcut.
Method 4: Reconnect External or Network Drives
If the file was stored on an external drive or network location:
- Reconnect the drive.
- Ensure the correct drive letter is assigned.
- In the end, try opening the file again.
Method 5: Run System File Checker (SFC)
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Type the command below and press Enter: sfc /scannow
Limitations of Manual Methods
- Not effective if the file is permanently deleted.
- Time-consuming for large data loss.
- Requires technical knowledge.
- Moreover, no guarantee of recovery.
Best Solution to Fix File Not Found Error in Windows 10
When manual methods fail, a professional DRS Windows Data Recovery Tool is the safest option. This tool is designed to locate and recover files that are missing, deleted, or inaccessible due to system errors. DRS has years of experience in Windows data recovery and file system troubleshooting. Additionally, you can fix Windows Update Error Code 0x80070003 and more.
Why Choose DRS Windows Data Recovery Tool?
- Recovers deleted, moved, and inaccessible files.
- Supports internal and external storage devices.
- Maintains original file names and structure.
- Easy-to-use interface for non-technical users.
- Additionally, works even after Windows updates or crashes.
One-Time Windows Data Recovery Service
If you only need to recover missing files once, a one-time Windows data recovery service is a convenient option. Experienced professionals analyze your system and restore lost or inaccessible files safely, without requiring you to install or learn any software.
Simple Steps to Repair File Not Found Windows 10 Error
- Download and install the DRS Windows File Recovery Tool.
- Now, choose the Volumes or Physical Drives that you want to recover.
- Then, select the Recovery Mode from the given list. Click Next.
- After that, you can preview all the Recovered Windows data.
- Lastly, click Save to download all the recovered data into the system.
How to Prevent File Not Found Error in the Future
- Avoid moving or renaming files without updating shortcuts.
- Keep regular backups of important data.
- Use trusted antivirus software.
- Moreover, avoid aggressive system cleanup tools.
Conclusion
The File Not Found error in Windows 10 usually occurs due to file movement, deletion, or broken shortcuts. In many cases, the file still exists and can be easily located using manual methods. However, when files are permanently missing or inaccessible, a professional DRS Recovery Tool offers a secure and reliable solution. Using the right approach ensures minimal downtime and protects important data from permanent loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: It means Windows cannot locate the file at its stored path. The file may have been moved, deleted, or renamed.
Ans: You can search for the file, restore it from the Recycle Bin, fix broken shortcuts, or use a professional DRS Windows Data Recovery Tool if manual methods fail.
Ans: Yes, system upgrades may change file paths or remove temporary files, leading to this error.
Ans: The DRS Windows Data Recovery Tool is a reliable solution to recover missing files and resolve the error safely.
About The Author:
I, Aaradhya Jain, a technical content writer at DRS Solutions, specializes in delivering clear, practical guides on data management, migration, and recovery tools. With a detail-oriented and user-first approach mindset, I transform complex processes into actionable insights for IT professionals and decision-makers.
