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Forum Discussion
I unlinked my computer from Dropbox and now a lot of my desktop files are gone
Thanks in advance! I recently took an online art class, that the teacher uses Dropbox to send us her files. I clicked the link and created an account. Dropbox installed on my computer and cell (which was linked) It immediately started copying my thousands of files. I did not want it to do that.! I really did not realize that it would automatically start copying everything and I had no idea how to stop it…it wouldn’t let me cancel. I wanted to get rid of Dropbox. I was unsure of exactly what to do. I Googled articles about DropBox and how to leave it installed but unlink the devices. I carefully followed the advice;I unlinked them. Not only did all the saved files from class disappear BUT the folders of personal artwork,etc just disappeared off my desktop. It had thrown the trash bin away, I thought I could undelete them. I have tried all morning to get the trash bin……no luck. Before I do too much more… are there are steps I can do to restore my files? I want to do it correctly. Should I go back and try to link my PC back to the account and it may restore the files? I am afraid it will start automatically copying things again. I am 71 years old. I do not have anyone to help me with this. Any help you can provide will be more than appreciated.
Thanks to both people who helped me with ideas. The files weren't in trash but I found some of them inside a Dropbox folder and was able to go in and drag them out on the desktop. I will give up on the others.
I removed Dropbox from my cellphone apps and from the desktop programs.
The community is amazing for helping me! Thanks again!
- Hannah
Dropbox Staff
Hey deltastar, thanks for joining us on the Dropbox Community!
It seems that during the installation of the Dropbox application, you turned on 'computer backup', which backs up your desktop files to Dropbox.
At this point, it would be best to link the computer back to the application and allow it to finish syncing.
You can see the syncing status by hovering your mouse over the small Dropbox icon in your system tray/menu bar.
Have you also checked the Dropbox folder in your Finder/File explorer for your desktop files? Whatever files sync to your Dropbox, should appear there.
You can also check the deleted files page in your account.
Then, once syncing is finished, you should be able to turn off computer backup safely.
Let me know how it goes!Hi, Hannah,
Thanks for a reply.
I have 40 GB of photos in my files alone without all the other things. Wouldn't it be over the limits of a free account and time consuming? Wanted in put before I started this. It could be creating another problem.
I don't plan on using Dropbox after this. I just want my files back.
Thanks!!!
