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User profile for user: 525prism
525prism Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

I lost all downloaded files and data on every app after restarting my MacBook Air.

Hello, this is my first time owning a MacBook Air. I previously owned those that uses windows. Usually, when I restart my laptop, nothing will happen other than all apps being closed. But I realized when I do that on MacBook Air, every downloaded files that I have disappear and the datas to some downloaded apps completely gone. I have to redo everything from scratch and that's a pain. I did not know restarting a MacBook Air erases your data. What should I do? and is there a way where I can retrieve those downloaded files back? my trash is completely empty.

Does the same thing happens if I shut down my Mac?

Thank you to whoever helps.

MacBook Air (2020 or later)

Posted on Jan 31, 2022 10:33 AM

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User profile for user: jdo_apple
jdo_apple
User level: Community Specialist

Feb 1, 2022 9:54 AM in response to 525prism

Hello 525prism,



Thanks for that info and for choosing the Apple Support Communities. If we understand correctly, you are having an issue with personal data going missing after restarting your MacBook Air. First, try running First Aid on your hard drive with the built in Disk Utility tool, as this can correct simple issues like you're experiencing.



How to repair a Mac disk with Disk Utility



Next, use safe mode to start up your Mac as it does the following things:



  • Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
  • Loads only required kernel extensions
  • Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
  • Disables user-installed fonts
  • Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files



Log in to your user account and test the issue while in safe mode and then restart normally and test the issue again.



How to use safe mode on your Mac

Graphics performance limited in macOS Recovery, safe mode, or Guest User mode



Cheers!

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I lost all downloaded files and data on every app after restarting my MacBook Air.

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