How to Fix a Disconnecting Hard Drive on Windows

For many users, a disconnecting hard drive can be a major inconvenience. This issue can arise unexpectedly, causing frustration and potentially resulting in data loss. However, with proper troubleshooting steps and the right tools, you can address the problem effectively. In this guide, we will explore how to fix a disconnecting hard drive, focusing on both hardware and software solutions. We will also discuss the importance of data recovery software in cases where the hard drive is not immediately accessible.

Quick Fixes

Before diving into more complex solutions, let's explore some immediate steps you can take to ensure your hard drive is properly connected and functioning:

1. Connect Your Hard Drive to a Different USB Port

If your external hard drive keeps disconnecting, start by changing the USB port it is connected to. Sometimes, certain ports may have issues, such as poor contact or interference from other devices. By switching to a different port, you can sometimes resolve the problem.

2. Turn Off USB Selective Suspend

USB selective suspend is a feature that can sometimes cause connectivity issues with external hard drives. This feature allows devices to be temporarily suspended to save power, but it can interfere with data transfers. To turn off USB selective suspend:

Right-click on 'This PC' or 'Computer' and select 'Properties'. In the System window, click on the 'Power Options' tab. Select 'Change plan settings' from the list on the left. Click on 'Change advanced power settings'. Expand the 'USB settings' section, then expand 'USB selective suspend settings'. Under 'USB selective suspend setting', set the level to 'Off' for both on battery and plugged in.

By turning off USB selective suspend, you can minimize the chances of your hard drive disconnecting.

3. Install USB 3.0 Controller Drivers

Ensure that your USB controller drivers are up to date and compatible with your system. You can usually find these drivers on the manufacturer's website or through your device manager in Windows:

Press Windows X to open the Start menu. Select 'Device Manager'. Expand the 'Universal Serial Bus controllers' section. Find any USB root hubs or other USB controllers that are listed as 'Not functioning properly' or 'Pending driver installation'. Right-click on the problematic controller and select 'Update driver'. Follow the prompts to install the latest drivers.

Having the correct drivers can help ensure stable connectivity between your hard drive and your computer.

Data Recovery and Fixing the Problem

If turning off USB selective suspend and updating drivers do not resolve the issue, or if the hard drive is not even accessible, you may need to use data recovery software to retrieve your files and then take action to fix the underlying problem. Here’s how you can tackle this situation:

1. Determine the State of the Hard Drive

First, check if the hard drive is simply disconnected or if there are signs of hardware failure. If the drive is making clicking sounds, overheating, or showing bad sectors, it may be physically damaged and require professional repair.

2. Use Data Recovery Software

When your hard drive is not immediately accessible, you can use data recovery software to retrieve your important files. Popular options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Disk Drill. These tools can scan and recover files from a variety of storage devices, including external hard drives:

Launch the data recovery software and select the appropriate drive (the one from which you are trying to recover files). Follow the prompts to scan the drive for lost files. You may need to choose between a quick scan and an in-depth scan. For critical data, choose the in-depth scan. Review the recovered files and save them to a safe location, such as an internal hard drive or a cloud storage service. Install and run system diagnostics to check for driver issues or other system problems that could be causing the disconnecting issue.

3. Take Steps to Prevent Future Issues

Once you have recovered your files, it is crucial to address the root cause of the disconnecting issue to prevent it from recurring. Re-run the safety checks on your hard drive and USB ports. You may also want to use a more stable connection type, such as Thunderbolt, if available.

Lastly, back up your important data regularly to avoid such issues in the future. Consider using robust backup solutions, such as cloud storage or an external hard drive with reliable power and connection stability.

By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and fix a disconnecting hard drive, ensuring that your important data remains safe and accessible.