Read out broken hard drive - how it works

Even if Windows no longer starts, you can read the data from a broken hard drive. We show you how this works in this guide.

Remove broken hard drive

To rescue the data from the hard drive, you have to connect the hard drive to another computer. For now, however, you need to remove the hard drive.

Remove all cables from the computer and set the power switch to off.
Now you can loosen the screws on the back of the housing and remove the cover.
The hard drive is usually located at the front at a medium height in the computer. Remove the power and connection cable from the hard drive.
You can then loosen the screws between the hard drive and the case.
Remove the hard drive and the two associated cables. You need this for the connection in the second computer.
You can now unscrew the working computer in the same way. Find a free slot on the mainboard and insert the hard drive. The hard disk does not have to be screwed on, but should be horizontal and secure.

If you have connected the hard drive to another computer, you can now read the hard drive the next time you start it.

Press the Windows key and E at the same time to open Explorer. here you can select the hard drive.
If the hard disk cannot be accessed, you must change the rights. We show you how this works in this practical tip.
If you have access to the hard drive, you can transfer the data to the computer or to an external hard drive.
You can then format the hard drive so that you can reinstall Windows.
Note: If the hard drive cannot be read, only a professional can help. This is definitely worth it for important data.