A corrupted HDD can feel like a digital disaster, with your files seemingly locked away. Hard drive data corruption happens when your system stumbles while writing data, leaving parts of your files inaccessible. The good news is that you can often fix a corrupted HDD, but early detection is key.

While some failing hard drives scream for attention with unusual noises or constant crashes, corruption can often be a silent killer. Ignoring these subtle signs can lead to data loss, program malfunctions, and even the dreaded Blue Screen of Death.

This guide will walk you through understanding the causes and symptoms of a corrupted HDD and equip you with the knowledge to take action and potentially rescue your data.

What are the common symptoms of a failing hard drive?

The most common hard disk corruption signs include:

• Corrupted files are files that cannot be opened, display unusual content, or show errors when accessed.
• Clicking or loud hardware sounds that come from the hard drive may signal mechanical issues.
• Inability to access data as the hard drive becomes unresponsive or inaccessible
• Failure to open a file as the associated application fails to load or crashes.
• Lowered performance, slow file access times, and delays in data retrieval may indicate underlying hard drive issues or corruption.
• The file system appears as a RAW instead of displaying a recognized file system (e.g., NTFS or FAT32).
• The presence of weird characters in filenames, such as strange symbols, gibberish, or random characters
• Error messages show during routine operations, indicating issues with the file system, hardware, or data integrity.

How to fix a corrupted hard drive

Before trying any of the following fix solutions, back up your hard drive. This will ensure that you can still have access to the files. You can also attempt to fix corrupted files - check our complete guide. 

Important disclaimer: Before attempting any of the following fixes, it's crucial to understand that if not performed correctly, some of these methods could lead to data loss. 

Fix 1. Run antivirus & anti-malware scan

Viruses and malware can corrupt your hard drive. Running a scan can help identify and remove these threats. Choose a powerful and updated antivirus software to scan your computer or system. 

Select a reputable and up-to-date antivirus program. Windows has a built-in option ("Windows Security"), or you can use a third-party application.

Open your antivirus program and choose the option for a full system scan. This will check all files and programs on your computer for malware.

If the scan finds any infected files, follow the program's instructions to remove or quarantine them.

After the scan and removal process, restart your computer to ensure all changes are applied. You can use data recovery software to attempt to restore the files that the virus corrupted or deleted.

Fix 2. Contact a data recovery service

If the previous steps don't work, the most effective way to guarantee your data's safety and soundness is to trust your device with a data recovery professional. 

Fix 3. Use Disk Management to check corrupted hard drive

Disk Management is a built-in Windows tool that can help you identify if your corrupted hard drive is recognized by your system. It won't directly "fix" corruption, but it can help you check its status and potentially re-assign a drive letter.

1. Access Disk Management:

Method 1: Using the Quick Access Menu: 

• Press the Windows key + X keys simultaneously. A menu will appear. Select Disk Management from the list.

Method 2: Using the Search Bar: 

• Type "disk management" in the Windows search bar and select "Create and format hard disk partitions" from the results.

2. In Disk Management, look for your hard drive.

3. If the drive shows as "Unallocated," it means it doesn't have a drive letter assigned. Right-click on the "Unallocated" space and select "New Simple Volume." 

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to assign a drive letter. Choose a letter that is not currently being used by another drive.

5. After assigning a drive letter, check if you can access the drive in File Explorer and see your files.

Fix 4. Run CMD to fix corrupted HDD

If your internal hard drive got corrupted because of bad sectors or file system errors, you can use Command Prompt to fix it.

1. In the Windows search box, type CMD and choose to run it as an administrator.

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2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command:

chkdsk /f /r D:

(Replace "D:" with the drive letter of your corrupted hard drive.)

3. Press Enter: Press the Enter key to execute the command.

4. CHKDSK will scan your hard drive for errors and attempt to fix them. This process can take a significant amount of time, depending on the size and condition of your drive.

5. Once the CHKDSK process is complete, restart your computer. If prompted to schedule the disk check for the next restart, type Y and press Enter.

Fix 5. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Windows has a built-in tool called System File Checker (SFC) that can help with system errors, including those related to corrupted hard drives.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (Follow the steps in Fix 4.)

2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command:

sfc /scannow

Press the Enter key to execute the command.

3. The SFC tool will scan your system files for errors and attempt to repair them. This process can take some time.

4. Once the scan is complete, restart your computer.

5. After restarting, check if the corrupted hard drive issue is resolved.

How to recover data from a corrupted HDD

If you're unable to recover your data using the methods described above, SalvageData can help. Our data recovery experts have over 18 years of experience recovering data from corrupted hard drives. We offer a free evaluation to determine the best course of action.

For less severe cases of data loss, you can try a free data recovery software. It can help you recover accidentally deleted files and data from logically damaged drives. Remember that you can’t retrieve overwritten files.

How does the HDD become corrupted?

Hard drives are typically split into two sections: the upper half contains all read/write elements used for accessing and modifying stored information. At the same time, the lower section contains an identical copy of the information accessed in the upper area. Summarizing: one part reads and writes your data, while the other keeps a copy. Both sections remain synchronized, employing very precise atomic clocks built into every hard drive.

If one half fails to complete an operation, the hard drive makes sure both parts have the correct information before saving anything. The result is that only files are written to storage media, whereas directories (also known as folders) are actually stored within the firmware of the hard drive.

Human error

Human error refers to the accidental deletion of files, formatting of the wrong drive, or mishandling of data during operations. These can occur due to oversight or lack of caution. However, deleting critical system files or formatting the wrong drive can result in data loss and potential corruption of the file system.

File system errors

File system errors are problems with the structure of the file system that organizes and manages data on a storage device.

These errors can disrupt the organization and retrieval of data, causing corruption. Unresolved errors may lead to a cascading effect, impacting the integrity of stored files and potentially corrupting the entire file system.

Physical damage

Drops, impacts, exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture, and other physical accidents can cause damage to the hard drive or its components.

This type of damage can mess up the internal parts of the hard drive, leading to errors when trying to read or write data, potentially losing your files, and overall corruption. 

Bad sectors on the hard drive

Bad sectors are areas on a hard drive where data cannot be reliably stored due to physical or logical issues. Over time, wear and tear, manufacturing defects, or physical damage can create bad sectors on a hard drive.

If critical system files or important data reside in these sectors, it can result in data corruption and compromise the overall stability of the hard drive.

Virus or malware attack

Viruses and malware are malicious programs that can wreak havoc on your hard drive. They can corrupt or delete your files, mess with your system settings, and even damage the way your hard drive organizes data. This can lead to data corruption and put your entire hard drive at risk. 

Damaged power supply

Your computer needs a stable power supply to work correctly. Power surges, blackouts, and other electrical problems can cause sudden power loss. If this happens while your hard drive is saving data, it can lead to incomplete files, file system errors, and data corruption. 

Faulty cables and connection

Loose or damaged cables can interrupt the flow of data to your hard drive. These unstable connections can lead to incomplete or corrupted data transfers, messing up your files and potentially causing file system errors. Make sure your cables are in good condition and securely connected.

Software bugs

Software bugs are errors in computer programs. These errors can cause programs to act strangely, which can lead to data corruption or loss. For example, a bug in a program that manages your hard drive could accidentally damage your files. 

Damaged Master Boot Record (MBR)

The Master Boot Record (MBR) is like a road map for your hard drive. It tells your computer how to find the operating system and other important data. If the MBR is damaged (due to viruses, sudden shutdowns, or errors), your computer might not be able to start up properly or access the data on the drive. Think of it as a missing sign on the road, which can cause you to get lost or stuck.

How to prevent corrupted HDD data loss

The best way to avoid having damaged storage media in a corrupted hard drive is to have an immediate backup system in place, in the right type of backup medium for your data.

We recommend the 3-2-1 rule:

• 3 Copies: Keep at least three copies of your important data.
• 2 Different Media: Store those copies on two different types of storage (e.g., an external hard drive and a cloud service).
• 1 Offsite Location: Keep one copy offsite, away from your home or office.

Regular backups can save you from the heartache of data loss if your hard drive becomes corrupted.

Corrupted Hard Drive FAQ

Can data be recovered from a corrupted hard drive without losing any data?

Yes, data recovery software such as SalvageData Free Recovery Software can be used to recover data from corrupted hard drives.

How can I fix a corrupted hard drive without formatting it?

You can fix a corrupted hard drive without formatting it by running antivirus scans to remove malware, using tools like CHKDSK to check for file system errors and bad sectors, and using Disk Management to assign a drive letter.

What are the consequences of ignoring signs of hard drive corruption?

Ignoring signs of hard drive corruption can lead to further issues such as permanent data loss, software malfunctioning, system crashes, and even the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD).