How to Use the Recycle Bin in SharePoint

In this SharePoint training video, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the recycle bin functionality in SharePoint, covering key aspects that users need to be well-versed in. The discussion begins by explaining the first and second-stage recycle bins. This exploration includes insights into how these bins function, their distinct purposes, and the crucial role they play in safeguarding against accidental deletions or modifications.

Furthermore, the tutorial navigates viewers through the deleted site recycle bin housed in the SharePoint Admin center. Here, users can gain valuable insights into the centralized management of deleted sites, ensuring efficient oversight and control over the digital workspace.

As an added bonus, the video extends its utility by looking at PnP PowerShell. This segment equips users with the knowledge of how to seamlessly delete or restore sites and files, showcasing the power and versatility of PowerShell scripting in SharePoint management.

Resources

Install PnP PowerShell:

Install-Module -Name "PnP.PowerShell" -RequiredVersion 1.12.0 -Force

Note: there is a newer PnP Version -> 2.1.1

Import PnP PowerShell:

Import-Module PnP.PowerShell

Connect to SharePoint:

Connect-PnPOnline -url https://tenant-admin.sharepoint.com -Interactive

Clear Recycle Bin:

Clear-PnPRecycleBinItem -All -Force

Restore all items in the Recycle Bin:

Get-PnPRecycleBinItem -RowLimit 10000 | Restore-PnPRecycleBinItem -Force

View deleted sites:

Get-PnPTenantRecycleBinItem

Restore deleted site:

Restore-PnPTenantRecycleBinItem -url https://... -Force

Permanently delete a site (From the Recycle Bin):

Remove-PnPTenantSite -url https://... -FromRecycleBin -Force

Permanently delete a site (Skip the Recycle Bin):

Remove-PnPTenantSite -url https://... -SkipRecycleBin -Force