Hard drive repair: the best tips and tools

If your hard drive is defective, you can repair it yourself with the appropriate tips and tools. We have summarized all the information in this practical tip for you.

Repair the hard drive with software

The hard disk is very susceptible to errors, since it is put under a lot of stress. Data is constantly read and written on it, which can lead to write and read errors.

• With Windows on-board tools, you can try to repair faulty hard drive segments. To do this, right-click on the respective hard drive under "Computer" and select "Properties"> "Tools". There, click on the "Check" button to test the hard drive for errors. This process can take some time.
• Free tool: Alternatively, you can also use the free CheckDrive tool to test and repair hard drive errors.

Recover lost data from hard drive

• If files are missing, you can use the freeware Recuva to try to save your data.
• If an entire partition has been accidentally deleted or reformatted instead, a test disk can be used.

Detect hardware errors

If there are other drives above or below the hard drive, such as CD-Rom, DVD or BD drives, the hard drive may get hotter and not work properly. Elevated temperatures also reduce the lifespan of the hardware.

• The temperature of a hard drive should not exceed 36 ° C. If the temperature is constantly above this, a passive hard disk cooler is suitable. An active hard drive cooler, on the other hand, usually consists of a fan that is attached to a hard drive bay or the hard drive itself. The temperature can be measured, for example, with an HDD thermometer.
• In the event of an error, you should always switch off the PC and disconnect it from the power supply. Open the housing and check whether the hard disk cabling is intact and the connections are correct.
• If the hard disk makes unusual noises during operation, such as clicking or rattling, this indicates that the hard disk is defective. It is advisable to back up the data on the hard disk here. To do this, you should boot from a live CD so that the hard drive is then saved. Both the distribution Clonezilla and SystemRescueCD are well suited for this. SystemRescueCD also has the Clonezilla backup program, which can be used to back up entire hard drives.
• Note: If you don't dare to repair the hard drive yourself, contact a specialist shop. You can try to save the data from above with the program before you request the repair.

We'll tell you what you can do if the hard disk suddenly becomes slow in the next practical tip.