How to Recover a Broken External Hard Drive – Symptoms, Recovery Methods, and Free Software
External hard drives are widely used for backups, file storage, and data transfer. However, they can sometimes fail due to physical damage, corrupted files, or software errors. If your external hard drive has stopped working, don’t panic—there are ways to recover your data.
This guide covers:
• Common symptoms of a failing external hard drive
• Step-by-step recovery methods
• Free data recovery software to retrieve lost files
By following these steps, you can maximize your chances of restoring your files without spending money on professional recovery services.
1. Symptoms of a Failing or Broken External Hard Drive
Before attempting recovery, identify the symptoms of your external hard drive failure. These can help determine whether the problem is related to hardware, software, or file corruption.
a. The External Drive Is Not Recognized
• The drive does not appear in File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac).
• It appears in Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac) but as “RAW” or “Unallocated.”
b. Clicking or Grinding Noises
• If the drive makes unusual clicking, beeping, or grinding sounds, it likely has physical damage.
c. Slow Performance or Freezing
• The drive slows down the computer or causes system crashes.
d. Corrupt or Missing Files
• Files have turned into unreadable symbols or disappeared entirely.
• Error messages like “The file or directory is corrupted and unreadable.”
e. Frequent Disconnections
• The external hard drive keeps disconnecting on its own.
• Windows or macOS prompts you to format the drive.
If you experience any of these issues, follow the recovery methods below before assuming your data is lost.
2. How to Recover Data from a Broken External Hard Drive
a. Check Hardware Issues First
Before using any software, test for simple issues:
• Change the USB cable – A faulty cable can prevent the drive from connecting properly.
• Try another USB port or computer – The problem may be with the port, not the drive.
• Use a powered USB hub – Some external drives require extra power to function.
b. Assign a Drive Letter (Windows Only)
If the drive appears in Disk Management but isn’t accessible:
1. Open Disk Management (Win + X → Disk Management).
2. Locate the external drive.
3. Right-click it → Change Drive Letter and Paths → Add → Assign a new letter.
c. Use Windows or macOS Built-in Repair Tools
• Windows: CHKDSK (Check Disk) Command
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type: chkdsk X: /f /r (replace “X” with your drive’s letter).
3. Press Enter and wait for the process to complete.
• Mac: First Aid in Disk Utility
1. Open Disk Utility (Finder → Applications → Utilities).
2. Select the external drive and click First Aid → Run.
d. Recover Data from a RAW External Hard Drive
If your drive appears as RAW, follow these steps:
1. Use PhotoRec (explained below) to extract files before formatting.
2. After recovery, format the drive:
• Windows: Go to Disk Management, right-click the drive, and select Format.
• Mac: Use Disk Utility and format as ExFAT or Mac OS Extended (Journaled).
e. Last Resort – Professional Data Recovery Services
If software recovery fails or the drive is physically damaged, professional recovery may be necessary. In New Zealand, consider:
• Payam Data Recovery: Website
• DataLab New Zealand: Website
3. Free Data Recovery Software
If your external hard drive is recognized but files are missing or corrupted, use free data recovery software.
a. Recuva (Windows) – Best for Basic Recovery
• Download: Recuva by CCleaner
• How to use:
1. Install and launch Recuva.
2. Select the type of files to recover (documents, photos, videos, etc.).
3. Choose your external hard drive and start the scan.
4. Recover selected files to a different storage device.
b. TestDisk & PhotoRec (Windows, Mac, Linux) – Best for RAW Drives
• Download: TestDisk & PhotoRec
• Features:
• TestDisk repairs partition tables.
• PhotoRec specializes in recovering deleted or lost files.
c. EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard (Windows & Mac) – User-Friendly
• Download: EaseUS Free Version
• Free version allows up to 2GB of data recovery.
d. Stellar Data Recovery (Windows & Mac) – Best for Large Files
• Download: Stellar Free Data Recovery
• Recovers up to 1GB for free.
4. Preventing Future External Hard Drive Failures
To avoid losing important files again, follow these best practices:
a. Regular Backups
• Use cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox).
• Keep at least two backup copies on different devices.
b. Handle External Drives with Care
• Store the drive in a shockproof case.
• Avoid dropping or shaking it.
c. Safely Eject the Drive
• Windows: Click Safely Remove Hardware before unplugging.
• Mac: Right-click the drive in Finder and select Eject.
d. Keep the Drive Cool
• Overheating can damage the drive.
• Store it in a well-ventilated area.
Final Thoughts
Recovering data from a broken external hard drive is possible if you take the right steps. Always start with simple troubleshooting before moving on to software recovery. If your drive has physical damage, professional help may be necessary.
For best results, back up your files regularly and follow safe handling practices to prevent future data loss.
If you found this guide useful, share it with others who might be facing similar issues!
