Installing new Windows may be both exciting and challenging. Although adding new features with the latest version of Windows is a smart idea, it may be an unpleasant experience if the installation process fails. One major issue that can arise when installing Windows is the hard disk not showing up. However, depending on the cause of the error, the solution can be simple or hard.

If you wish to fix a hard disk that is not being detected in Windows, follow the methods in this article.

How Can I Fix Windows Hard Drive Not Detected?

The following are the best solutions for fixing the hard disk not displaying during the Windows installation issue:

Solution 1: Examine or adjust the hard drive’s connection

Instead of focusing solely on technical issues, ensure that the hard disk is properly attached to your system and that the cables are in working order. To check, just open your system’s casing and ensure that the data/power connection is properly attached. While you’re at it, clean the drive, its box, and the cords that connect it.

If there is a problem with the power cable, reattach your hard drive to your PC using new cables or slots. After making the adjustments, enable ATA/SATA in the BIOS settings to ensure that everything is operating properly.

Follow the procedures below to check and reconnect your hard drive to resolve the hard drive issue during Windows installation.

Step 1 – Turn off the computer first, then carefully unplug the data cord from the hard disk.

Step 2 – After replacing the data and power cords, reconnect the hard drive.

Step 3 – Turn on the computer and enter the BIOS settings page. Check the “System” settings to see if the hard drive is recognized and not turned off. Enable the hard disk if it has not already been turned on.

Step 4 – Now, try booting the machine from the Windows installation media; it should identify the hard drive and continue.

Solution 2: Update Hard Drive Drivers

If you have not updated the hard drive’s drivers, an old or unsupported driver may cause the hard drive to stop working. As a result, it is critical that you update or reinstall the hard drive drivers to resolve the hard disk fails to recognize while installing Windows.

Follow the procedures below to update the hard drive drivers and resolve the hard drive issue:

Step 1 – To start, press the “Windows + X” keys simultaneously and select the “Device Manager” option from the menu.

Step 2 – Next, choose and enlarge the “Disk drives” section in the Device Manager window. From the list, choose the failed hard disk and perform a right-click. From the context menu, choose “Update driver.”

Step 3 – In the new window, pick the “Search automatically for updated driver software” option, allowing Windows to find and install the most recent available updates for your hard drive.

If that doesn’t work, you can try using Driver Updater Software. This software can automatically find and update all your drivers.

Solution 3: Check Hard Drive Status

If your hard disk does not appear when you install Windows, you should check to see if it is working properly. Accessing the hard drive’s properties will allow you to verify its status. If the hard drive is in good condition, you can proceed to the next solution; if not, you can attempt to fix the hard drive.

To resolve the hard drive not appearing when installing Windows, take the actions listed below to assess the hard drive’s condition:

Step 1 – To begin, hit the “Windows + X” keys simultaneously, then choose “Device Manager” from the menu.

Step 2 – Next, choose and enlarge the “Disk drives” section in the Device Manager window. From the list, choose the failed hard disk and perform a right-click. From the context menu, choose “Properties.”

Step 3 – In the Properties Window, click the “General” option at the top.

Step 4 – If the “This device is working properly” notice appears under the “Device status” section, it indicates that the hard disk is in good working order.

Before you install Windows on your computer, you may use this method to check the hard drive’s condition and see if it is functioning properly.

Conclusion

Upgrading to a new Windows operating system version is an excellent plan because it allows you to discover the latest enhancements and user interface. However, if you encounter a hard drive not showing during the Windows installation process, resolve the issue by following the steps outlined in the article. Unless the hard drive is permanently destroyed and must be replaced.