How to Recover Data from an External Hard Disk Not Detecting- A Comprehensive Guide (2024)

What happens when your external hard disk stops detecting or appears to be malfunctioning? it can be challenging because external hard disks have become an essential tool for storing and backing up our valuable data. However, with the right approach, you can often recover your files. If you want to know how to recover data from an external hard disk not detecting (2024), This comprehensive guide, will walk you through the step by step process.

Step 1: Check the Connections

The first step in troubleshooting a non-detecting external hard disk is to check the connections. Ensure that the USB cable is firmly connected to both the hard disk and your computer. If possible, try using a different USB cable or connecting the hard disk to a different USB port on your computer.

Step 2: Check for Power Issues

If your external hard disk requires a separate power supply, make sure that it is properly plugged in and receiving power. Check the power cable and adapter for any signs of damage or wear. If the hard disk is not receiving power, it may not be detected by your computer.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall Drivers

Sometimes, driver issues can cause detection problems. In 2024, most operating systems automatically update drivers, but it’s worth checking manually:

• For Windows: Open Device Manager, locate the drive, right-click, and select “Update driver.”
• For macOS: Use the built-in Software Update feature to check for any system updates that might include driver fixes.

Step 4: Use Disk Management Tools

Modern operating systems come with powerful disk management tools:

• On Windows: Use the Disk Management utility (right-click the Start button and select “Disk Management”).
• On macOS: Use Disk Utility (found in Applications > Utilities).

These tools can help you identify if the drive is visible to the system but not properly mounted.

Step 5: Use Data Recovery Software (Personal Use)

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it’s time to consider using data recovery software for personal use. There are various data recovery tools available, both free and paid, that can help you scan your external hard disk and recover lost or inaccessible files. Some popular data recovery software options include:

• EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard
• Recuva
• Stellar Data Recovery

Follow the instructions provided by the data recovery software to scan your external hard disk and recover your files.

For advanced data recovery, you need professional data recovery tools.

Risks of Using Data Recovery Software

While data recovery software can be a valuable tool in retrieving lost or inaccessible files, there are some potential risks associated with their use that you should be aware of:

• Data Overwriting
• Further Drive Damage
• Incomplete Recovery
• Complexity: Some tools require technical knowledge

Step 6: Professional Data Recovery

If you are unable to recover your data using the above methods or if the hard disk appears to be physically damaged, it’s best to seek professional help. Data recovery services such as HI Tech Data Group have specialized tools and expertise to recover data from damaged or malfunctioning hard disks. Remember, it’s crucial to stop using the external hard disk as soon as you notice any issues to prevent further data loss or damage to the disk.

The professional data recovery company must have;

• Specialized clean room environments
• Advanced recovery techniques for SSDs and newer storage technologies

Preventing Future Data Loss

Once you’ve recovered your data, take steps to prevent future loss:

• Regularly back up your data to cloud services or multiple devices.
• Use modern backup solutions that employ AI to predict potential drive failures.
• Keep your storage devices in appropriate environmental conditions.

Remember, no storage solution is perfect. Regular backups are your best defense against data loss.

Recovering data from an external hard disk that is not detecting can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and tools, it is often possible to retrieve your valuable files. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot common issues and recover your data in 2024.