🔍 How to Detect Problems in SSD or HDD
🔍 Why it's important to detect disk problems early
Prevention is always better than cure. Early identification of a hard drive problem can:
- 💾 Save important files from loss
- 💰 Reduce replacement costs
- ⚡ Ensure uninterrupted computer operation
📊 10 key signs of a problem with an SSD or HDD
If your computer is taking an unusually long time to start, the disk may be having trouble accessing critical startup files.
Η low read/write speed is one of the first signs of wear on an SSD or HDD.
The system may freeze when trying to read data from damaged sectors on the disk.
HDDs produce mechanical soundsIf you hear "clicks", "scratching" or "buzzing", there is a serious problem in the mechanical system.
Files that do not open or show errors indicate a possible data destruction on the disc.
If you find that files are missing or corrupted, this may be an indication file system corruption.
When the computer cannot boot and displays messages such as "No bootable device", the disk may be severely damaged.
Technology SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis & Reporting Technology) alerts you to impending failure. You can check the status with tools like CrystalDiskInfo.
Blue screens may be related to read/write errors from the disc.
If the OS installation fails repeatedly, the disk may no longer be reliable.
🔧 Ways to check and diagnose problems
Fortunately, there are tools that can help you check the health of your disk:
✅ Tools for Windows
- CrystalDiskInfo: Provides details about the disk status through SMART data.
- CHKDSK: Scans and repairs bad sectors.
- Windows Event Viewer: For analysis of related errors.
✅ Tools for macOS
- DiskUtility: It offers the ability to check and repair disks.
- DriveDx: For advanced SSD/HDD monitoring.
✅ Tools for Linux
smartctl(via the toolkitsmartmontools)badblocksto detect bad sectors
💡 Tips for prevention and treatment
- 🔒 Keep regular backups.
- 👂 Don't ignore strange sounds or system behaviors.
- ⛔ Avoid using the computer when you notice disk malfunctions.
- (I.e. Replace the disc immediately if the problem is confirmed.
📌 When should you replace an SSD or HDD?
Although all discs have a limited lifespan, SSD show gradual deterioration based on their recording cycles, while HDD They are mainly subject to mechanical wear. Consider replacing them when:
- 📊 The SMART health is below 80%
- ❌ Do you have frequent errors or bad sectors
- 📉 Observe data loss or slow performance
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