When you use an external hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD) instead of installing one on your computer, you are using “external storage.” Hard drives fail more frequently in laptops because newer computers have fewer moving parts.
Hard drives fail more frequently when used incorrectly, with outdated or unsupported operating systems and drivers, constantly attached and unplugged from other devices (such as laptops), or safely disposed of.
Before attempting any other remedy, run the troubleshooter apps available with Windows OS. These apps include:
- Windows Hardware and Device Troubleshooter
- Windows USB Troubleshooter
Your computer’s USB ports and the storage device they’re linked to can be checked for known issues. They’ll do everything they can to fix anything that goes wrong.
The Start Menu search bar or the Windows Settings Troubleshooter page can lead you to these resources.
If you ever have a computer-related issue, give us a call at 1-800-620-5285. Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you by our staff at the Atlanta Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Atlanta, GA, please call or text the local office at (678) 695-8120.