Ubuntu: Linux does not recognize external hard drive - what to do?

In this practical tip, we explain what you can do if Ubuntu does not recognize your external hard drive.

Ubuntu: External hard drive is not recognized

If your computer does not recognize the external hard drive under Ubuntu, the following points will help you to solve the problem.

1. First change the USB slot to test whether the slot has a defect. Make sure that you use the correct USB version - depending on the stick and system 2.0 or 3.0.
2. If you can connect to the hard drive but cannot access it, first format the disk in the correct Linux format.
3. If you are not sure whether the hard drive is working, connect it to a Windows or Mac device. Eject the disk safely there.
4. Restart the Linux computer and leave the hard drive connected.
5. In another article, you will read how to automatically mount the hard drive on Ubuntu.