Is your computer hard drive failing? Here’s how to tell
Hard drives crash, and it can happen any time from day one to several
years down the line. It’s actually more convenient if it happens on day one because
then it’s almost definitely a factory or manufacturing issue and it’s likely
that you’ll only have a small amount of your precious data stored on it. Within
a few months, though, it’ll be stuffed full of your personal photos and documents.
Waking up to discover that it packed in and given up the ghost overnight would
be a nightmare. It was all so tragically sudden – or was it? You might have
been sitting on a ticking time bomb just waiting to crash that had been trying
to send you hints for weeks.
Though you might not be able to pinpoint exactly when it’s going to
happen, you should be able to see when your hard drive is getting close to the
end of its life by looking out for these top tips and might be able to save its
life before it ever reaches us.
Unusual noises
If you’ve had your computer for a few years and you know all its normal
clicks and whirrs, a
new set of alarming sounds should set some alarm bells off for you. You
should also look out for screeching, beeping and grinding as massive warning
signs that your precious data could be for the chop.
Corrupted Files
A common but lesser known sign of hard disk failure. If you go from
saving files without a hitch to suddenly being unable to open them it’s not
looking good for you.
Disappeared files
You open up your folder to look for some of your usual files, and
they’re suddenly missing. Fear strikes into your heart. We’ve been there buddy,
and we’re telling you your hard drive is at fault.
Lacklustre performance
Your once impressive machine, your pride and joy with performance speeds
to rival Usain Bolt, is now moving at the speed of a glacier – and you’re just trying
to open up a word document! It’s also freezing when you launch apps, try to
save documents and browse your favourite social media sites. There’s definitely
a problem
with your hard drive.
Keep your eyes and ears open for all the ways your hard drive is trying
to let you know how it's feeling, and if you can't catch it in time then we
offer a completely free data recovery diagnostic.