Automated Windows 10 updates deleted all my documents and files

Hello everyone!

I also have an ASUS and it also went to black screen Windows after the forced update last night. While I haven't found the solution yet, there is a way to get your files off your computer which it sounds like might be useful. Mine aren't visible, but aren't gone either.  Might we compare the black screen Windows to an alternate timeline in a sci-fi thriller where everything is still the same...you just can't see it.  Or at least I hope this is the same for you...

There are 2 ways to get to the task manager, left clicking anywhere does nothing, that has been established, but if you right click on the magnifying glass you get some options.

Alternately, in black screen Windows select Ctrl Alt Dlt to prompt the logoff screen and go to the task manager. In the task manager window Click on File -->create new task then click on browse. This will open up a "my computer" type window.  I think it defaulted to 'my PC' folder but if you scroll down to the bottom of the side window on the left you should see your hard drive OS (C:). Double click on that and your user file should be accessible which should have your files and a bunch of other program folders and The windows.old file is also here on mine. Navigate to the file or folders you want, right click on them and select copy.

If you insert an external hardrive or USB memory it should also show on the left window below the C harddrive. After you copy your files, navigate over to the external drive and double click on it. Then right click and paste the files in. Whew!

Of course this isn't a solution to get your computer up and running but saves money on unneeded data recovery service. And we may be able to use some of the "solutions" suggested by Mr/Mrs. Microsoft from this task manager window that has been so helpful. But first let's get our data backed up to primarily....reduce our stress level....and in case any of the solutions really do delete files as occurred last fall's update which started this thread.

I haven't gotten any of the blue screen trouble shoot options to work yet but I will post again if I do. I will complete my data backed up and then try some more things.

Hello Jelis,

Forgive me, but why should I be constantly on the defensive, or be forced into workarounds when the problems are not being caused by me? This is like allowing a decorator into your home and then they decide where your furniture and possessions should be arranged/stored. Also, one should not have to be concerned about trying to enter your home to discover they have changed the locks or security code to stop you from getting into your own property!!

I did try to use the Microsoft help people, the result was obvious, roll back to the last backup as Windows Old did not work, plus the other 'guaranteed' options he said he would use did not work. The one key questions he could not answer was why the problem occurred and what am I supposed top do when it tries to shove the update onto my machines again.... yes you guessed it... Microsoft Cricket chirping... just like their absolute, and complete lack of response to this community thread...

I greatly appreciate everyone's input of workarounds or fixes, the key fact is that we should not have to use ANY of them, a product should not be forcefully installed onto people personal property that is not 100% capable of not damaging people's data, memories or careers.

Exact same thing...

I got the "Important updates are pending" message.  This notice came up several times on my Acer notebook running Windows 10. 

I finally selected "Pick a time" then selected a time about one hour ahead and then closed all of the open apps and web sites.  Then sat back and allowed the computer to auto start the updates. 

When I came back, the screen requested the language option (English selected) then it continued to update with pleasant prompts stating not to turn the computer off.

Checked several times during the update process and saw calming messages like, "Leave everything to us" and "Making sure your apps are good to go." 

When finished, the entire hard drive is deleted.  All files, docs, pictures and desktop icons are gone.  

The dialog box that comes up says, “Location is not available"

                     C:\WINDOWS\system32|config\systemprofile\Desktop is unavailable.

This is completely outrageous.   "Unavailable" is an understatement.  I have a black screen!

The start button with the logo is at the bottom of the tool bar - but does nothing.

There is a search icon in the toolbar - does nothing.

There is a task view icon in the toolbar - does nothing.

There is no internet connection (either wireless or hardwired plugged into the router - tried both), no desktop, no apps, no browser, docs, picture, nothing but a recycle bin.

The notebook battery indcator icon in the toolbar seems to be functioning.

Yes, tried to restart many times - no change.

I’m not a computer expert – but I’ve been using Windows since it first came out.  I have never seen anything like this.

For a forced update on an OS like Windows 10 – in this day and age – to completely trash a customer’s computer - this is unacceptable.

I am beyond angry.

I can only offer some guidance/things to check yourself.

Make sure you are using the same sign-in name as you were previously.

Check using File Explorer for any user name folders that are similar to your usual sign-in name. Expand This PC and then expand C:, expand the Users folder and look in the individual folder names listed for common default folders. (Desktop, Documents etc.)

If you want to try it go to Settings > Update and security select View installed update history and there should be an option to Roll back to the previous build. (if you have just updated)

Although this is after the event:

Always keep a second backup copy of important files.

Don't keep files on your desktop. Use the default folders Documents, Videos etc. and use shortcuts on the desktop to those file locations.

You may click this support link to contact Answer Desk for further assistance about addressing the issue.

Update us with the status of the issue.