Windows 10: External hard drive is not recognized - that's because
Even under Windows 10, an external hard drive may not be recognized. In this practical tip, we explain what you can do in such a case.
External hard drive is not recognized under Windows 10: Possible reasons
- If your hard drive is not recognized under Windows 10, first check whether the storage medium has been correctly connected to your PC.
- Try a different USB port and - if possible - an alternative connection cable. You can also test the hard drive to another PC to test the functionality there.
- Open the disk management via the Windows search and check whether the external hard disk is displayed there.
- If the hard disk is displayed, you can right-click on a drive letter.
Windows 10: External hard drive is not recognized - further tips
- If the external hard drive is still not recognized, you can format the data carrier.
- If there is data on your hard drive, you should make a backup before formatting. To do this, connect the data medium to another PC.
- In a separate practical tip, we will help you if the USB connection on your hard drive is defective.
- If your hard drive has been in operation for a long time and does not work on other PCs, it may be defective. It is advisable to contact the manufacturer and to check possible warranty documents.
In the next practical tip, you will learn how to check and repair a hard drive under Windows 10. If the disk is irrevocably broken, you can find out about a new external hard drive here.