Files sometimes reopen as separate new instances due to temporary files or auto-recovery mechanisms. When applications crash or exit unexpectedly, they often save a temporary version of your work. Upon restarting, the software detects this file and opens it separately from the original, presenting it as a 'Recovered' document to prevent data loss. This differs from simply opening the saved file manually; it's the application trying to restore unsaved changes from its last working state. The behavior protects against data loss but creates confusion as it generates a new file alongside your original.

This is commonly observed in word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs after a crash, where you might see '[Original Name] (Recovered)'. Spreadsheet applications and integrated development environments (IDEs) such as Microsoft Excel or Visual Studio Code also implement similar mechanisms to safeguard unsaved formulas or code. Data analysis platforms handling large datasets may generate temporary recovery files during long computation sessions.

The key advantage is increased resilience against data loss, ensuring users don't lose critical work from interruptions or errors. However, this behavior can clutter workspaces and confuse users who may not recognize the difference between the recovered file and the original saved version, potentially leading to version conflicts. Future improvements could involve clearer prompts, streamlined merging options, or more integrated recovery mechanisms within applications to reduce user confusion while maintaining protection.