How to recognize a dying hard disk

All hard disks eventually die. There are software tools to check if your hard disk has a problem or not. However before you stress the hard disk with those tests, check if it does not show signs of dying. In that case it you may still be able to backup the data before it goes completely dead. First backup the data before you stress the hard disk with tests.

Here are some signs to be wary of:

• Odd noises: a hard disk makes noise when they are running although barely detectable in recent models. They also make noise when they read or write data. If you know the regular noises but you hear something totally different like a high-pitched whining sound could mean your hard disk's bearings are going bad. Relatively speaking, this is good news; you probably have time to rescue your data. Clicking sounds however are cause for urgent action.
• Excessive error messages when you scan your hard drive. If you consistently receive lots of error messages like “bad sectors” when you scan your hard drive with for example CHDSK, watch out.
• Garbled file names or folder names. See picture below for an example.



• Frequent but irregular crashes, especially while booting up Windows
• Frequent error messages while moving or copying files
• Disappearing files and folders