Friday June 13 2025

How to identify if an SSD or HDD has a problem

How to identify problems in SSD or HDD

🔍 How to Detect Problems in SSD or HDD

The two main types of storage media used today are: hard drives (HDD) and solid state drives (SSD)Although SSDs offer faster performance and greater reliability compared to traditional HDDs, no storage medium is immune to problems or damage.
Early recognition of signs of failure or instability in an SSD or HDD can prevent the loss of valuable data and save time and money.
⚠️ Important Reminder: HDDs and SSDs are essential components of any computer. When these drives experience problems, they can lead to data loss, delay of operations or even total collapse of the operating system.

🔍 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

🟢 1. Slow boot of the operating system

If your computer is taking an unusually long time to start, the disk may be having trouble accessing critical startup files.

🔵 2. Delay in opening files/applications

Η low read/write speed is one of the first signs of wear on an SSD or HDD.

🟣 3. Frequent system hangs or freezes

The system may freeze when trying to read data from damaged sectors on the disk.

🟡 4. Strange sounds (for HDD)

HDDs produce mechanical soundsIf you hear "clicks", "scratching" or "buzzing", there is a serious problem in the mechanical system.

🔴 5. Error messages when accessing files

Files that do not open or show errors indicate a possible data destruction on the disc.

🟠 6. Files that "disappear"

If you find that files are missing or corrupted, this may be an indication file system corruption.

🟤 7. Unable to start the operating system

When the computer cannot boot and displays messages such as "No bootable device", the disk may be severely damaged.

⚪ 8. SMART errors

Technology SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis & Reporting Technology) alerts you to impending failure. You can check the status with tools like CrystalDiskInfo.

🟧 9. Frequent blue screens (BSOD)

Blue screens may be related to read/write errors from the disc.

🟥 10. Unable to install or upgrade the operating system

If the OS installation fails repeatedly, the disk may no longer be reliable.

🔧 Ways to check and diagnose problems

CrystalDiskInfo - Disk Diagnostic Tool

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 toolkit smartmontools)
  • badblocks to 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

🔚 Summarizing

Correct and timely diagnosis of problems with an SSD or HDD can make the difference between a simple repair and irreparable data loss. As we have seen, there are a variety of signs that can indicate that something is wrong with our storage medium: slow response, unusual sounds, loss of access to files or frequent system crashes.

Prevention is always better than cure. Regular backups, the use of disk health monitoring tools (SMART for HDD/SSD), and updating software and drivers are steps that can significantly reduce the risk of data loss.

Ultimately, whether you use an HDD or SSD, knowledge and foresight are your most powerful tools. By recognizing the signs early, you protect not only your equipment, but also your valuable files.

Evangelos
✍️ Evangelos
Its creator LoveForTechnology.net — an independent and trusted source for tech guides, tools, software, and practical solutions. Each article is based on personal testing, evidence-based research, and care for the average user. Here, technology is presented simply and clearly.



RELATED TOPICS


💬 Comments

Share your thoughts

Loading comments...