If your external hard drive is not detected by Windows, there are a few steps you can take to try and resolve the issue.
Step 1: Connect the External Hard Drive Properly
The first step is to ensure that the external hard drive is connected properly. Check the connection on both ends (i.e. the external hard drive and the computer) to make sure they are secure. Also check the power cord/adapter of the external hard drive is connected properly.
Step 2: Check if the Hard Drive is Detected in Disk Management
The next step is to check if the hard drive is detected in Disk Management. To access Disk Management:
• Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard. This should open the Run window.
• Type “diskmgmt.msc” in the box and press Enter.
This will open the Disk Management window. Here you should be able to see the hard drive listed, if it has been detected by Windows.
If it is not listed, then the hard drive is not detected by Windows. In this case, you may need to try connecting the hard drive to another computer to check if it is detected by Windows on that computer.
Step 3: Uninstall the Drivers for the External Hard Drive
If the hard drive is still not detected by Windows, then it’s time to try uninstalling the drivers for the hard drive. To do this:
• Open Device Manager. To do this, press Windows key + R to open the Run window. Type “devmgmt.msc” in the box and press Enter.
• Locate the external hard drive in the list of devices and right-click on it.
• From the context menu, select “Uninstall device”.
• Once the drivers have been uninstalled, you should be able to reconnect the hard drive and Windows should detect it automatically.
Step 4: Check for Damage or Corruption
If the hard drive is still not detected, then it’s time to check for any physical damage or corruption. To do this, you should try connecting the external hard drive to another computer and run a diagnostic test on it. If the diagnostic finds any errors or issues, then the data may be corrupted and needs to be repaired.
Step 5: Try a Different Cable or Connector
If the hard drive is still not detected by Windows, then the last resort is to try a different cable or connector. Try connecting the external hard drive using a different USB port or try using a different cable. If none of these work, then the hard drive may be beyond repair and needs to be replaced.
In conclusion, if your external hard drive is not detected by Windows, there are a few steps you can take to try and resolve the issue. Check the connection, un-install the drivers, run a diagnostic test, and try a different cable or connector.