best format external hard drive windows 7

Even if it's working, the drive might not appear in File Explorer if it lacks a volume that Windows can identify. When you try another machine, don't only check This PC be sure to check whether it appears in the computer's Disk Management window, as discussed above. Search for Disk Management and click the top result to open the experience. If the drive doesn't work on any computer you plug it into, the drive itself is likely dead and you'll need to replace it. How do I format a new hard drive in Windows 7 Open Start. If you have another computer nearby, try plugging the external disk into that to check whether it's detected. What if the drive doesn't show up in Disk Management even after trying both of these steps? It's tough to know for certain whether the drive is bad or your computer is having a problem. Some USB hubs won't provide enough power for an external drive to function.

If you've plugged the drive into a USB hub, try connecting it directly to the computer instead. See how to diagnose and fix dead USB ports if you suspect this. Should it work in one USB port but not another, you may have a dead USB port. Unplug the drive from its current slot and try plugging it into another USB port on your computer.

Best format external hard drive windows 7