Computer technology is so ingrained in our daily lives that many people can not imagine a day without it. They are used for work and entertainment, covering different aspects of our lives. In addition, hard drives inside these computers are used to store valuable files, such as personal documents, photos, videos, or audio files.
However, most electronic storage devices, including hard drives, have a limited lifespan compared to older information storage methods. The average lifespan of a hard disk drive is about 5 to 10 years, depending on the type of drive. This lifespan can quickly decrease if the device is exposed to large fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and movement.
External hard drives and the ones used on laptops are more susceptible to wear and tear damage as they are moved around quite often. The realistic lifespan of a portable hard drive is about 3 to 5 years, considered a very short time for storing valuable data.
The best scenario is when a hard drive fails gradually, which gives users a chance to react quickly to changes. This way, a user can copy valuable data and replace the storage device before a fatal failure occurs and the hard drive data becomes inaccessible. Many signs indicate the gradual collapse of your hard drive.
Common Symptoms that the Hard Drive is Failing
Slow computer speed, frequent error messages, and a blue screen of death. These signs are non-specific and can be caused by a million different things. However, regardless of what is causing these symptoms, we recommend backing up your valuable files immediately.
Data corruption. When files can not be opened and are corrupted, even if they are saved without errors, there may be some problems. Also, files suddenly can disappear, which is not a good sign.
These symptoms can be related to a host of other problems, but it mainly occurs because of a gradual hard drive failure.
Increase in bad sectors number. Bad sectors are areas of the hard disk drive that are damaged. They are automatically masked by the operating system and, therefore, become difficult to identify.
Thus, facing a bad sector is not a good sign, which usually indicates complications within the hard disk drive.
Users can run diagnostics on their devices to check the bad sector problem. Using system tools, you can easily scan the device and identify issues.
Unusual Sounds. Hearing any odd noise from your data storage device is not good news. The repetitive sound, also known as a click of death, is caused by the drive’s read/write heads trying to write data. Grinding or squealing noises indicate that parts of the equipment, such as the bearings or spindle motor, have some complications.
Any unusual sounds from the device are a signal for a user to back up the essential files, as nothing good happens afterward.
What to Do When Noticing Failing Hard Drive Signs?
When a user is concerned with some issues within a hard drive, there is not much to do. Backing up your data is the most effective method against data loss.
By creating copies of your essential files and storing them somewhere safe, you significantly decrease the chances of complete data loss. Therefore, if something happens with a primary device, a user can replace it with a new one without losing the data.
Irreversible data loss is unavoidable if you face a hard disk drive failure and do not have a backup. Nevertheless, it is essential to avoid trying to restore the files yourself. Each wrong action will worsen the situation, and valuable files will be gone.
Therefore, power down the device when facing a failure. Do not use recovery software if the HDD is still operating, as you can overwrite the data. Repairing the device is also not an option, as you can damage internal components and lead to complete data loss.
It is better to entrust your failing device to data recovery professionals. This way, you will achieve the maximum results and return access to your precious documents.
Hard Drive Data Recovery with PITS Global
With years of experience, PITS Global offers data recovery services for external and internal hard drives, solid-state drives, RAIDs, servers, and other devices. Our technicians recover data from any hard drive type, brand, and model, achieving high success results.
Our team starts our recovery process with a risk-free evaluation to provide our clients with the maximum result. Via an assessment, our engineers estimate the reason for data loss, the condition of the device, and the chances for success. At the end of the evaluation, we provide our client with a service quote with the details about price and timing turnaround. We extend service options, as meeting clients’ needs and deadlines is essential for our team.
Reasons to Entrust Your Hard Drive to Us:
24/7/365 Available Emergency Service
50+ Locations Throughout the US
Flexible Data Recovery Options
ISO Certified Class 10 Cleanroom
Risk-free Diagnostics and Evaluation
100% Customer Satisfaction Rate
Start your case with our highly-skilled engineers by filling out the form below or calling 888.611.0737. Please provide all the available information about your data loss scenario, and we will assist you in any way we can.