Master the basics of Microsoft Windows 7 and find out what's new in the latest version of Windows. Windows 7 tutorial 10 - Using the Recycle Bin

In Windows 7 tutorial 10, we'll take a look at the Recycle Bin folder. The Recycle Bin is where files and folders are sent when you remove them. It acts like a safety net against deleting data by accident. In the video we'll show you how to recover files from the Recycle Bin, empty the bin and also change its size. You will also see a few exceptions where files are not sent to the Recycle Bin and are deleted immediately instead.

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Additional notes

Emptying the recycle bin does not destroy its contents - If you are working with private or sensitive data, remember that it is quite easy to recover data even after emptying the Recycle Bin, if you have the right software. If you need a greater level of security, you should use a file shredder. Just like a paper shredder destroys confidential waste paper, a file shredder can destroy data. For more information, see our guide to PC privacy.