Search Time Machine for a file that existed and subsequently deleted within recent past

mrokloricred37 wrote:

Is it true that I cannot search TM for a file that was on the desktop from I believe 12/16/25-12/19/25, then it was deleted. I know the exact name of the file and that it was on the desktop.

I have to go into each individual TM backup and look for it?

No. Do not search the Time Machine backups with the Finder. That is a sure fire way to corrupt a backup set.

You must use the Time Machine application - not the Time Machine settings or Finder - to find and restore backed up files.

Here is Apple's guidance and video support on the subject:

How to restore files from a Time Machine backup | Apple Support

Restore items backed up with Time Machine on Mac - Apple Support

mrokloricred37 wrote:

I am sorry but it just doesn't seem to work. Per the video it says "enter time machine", mine says "browse time machine settings" which I chose.

It says to click the folder as to where you think it is which I did (desktop folder) and then entered the search item…NO luck.

Try this:

• Open the Desktop folder. One way to do this is to open your Home (user name) folder in list view and among the other folders listed (e.g. Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Music ...) will be Desktop. Double click to open that Desktop folder.
• Now enter Time Machine from the menu item that looks like a small clock. It should show the currently open folder in Finder, namely the Desktop folder in the latest Time Machine backup set. Now step backwards in time along the right side to that range of dates 12/16/25-12/19/25 and see if the desired file is shown in Time Machine to restore from.