When a hard drive fails, it means that it can't store and retrieve files. The computer might not start, or it might show error messages. The drive should be checked for errors.
Test a drive for errors on Windows or macOS.
Windows and macOS Drive Test Tools
Windows
Need more help?
- Microsoft Article: Run the System File Checker tool
- Microsoft Article: Defragment your Windows Computer
- Answer ID 34259: How to Check External Drive for Errors or Failure using Windows Diagnostic Programs
macOS
Need more help?
- Apple Article HT210898: How to repair a Mac disk with Disk Utility
- Answer ID 14800: How to Check External Drive for Errors or Failure using macOS Disk Utility First Aid
WD Drive Test Tools for Windows and macOS
WD Drive Test softare tools for Windows and macOS can be used on supported drives.
Download and install WD Discovery to unlock password protected drives. |
Internal Drives
Windows
Need more help?
Answer ID 31759: Download, Install, Test Drive and Update Firmware Using Western Digital Dashboard
External Drives
Windows
Need more help?
- Answer ID 50396: How to Install and Use WD Drive Utilities Software
- Answer ID 31759: Download, Install, Test Drive and Update Firmware Using Western Digital Dashboard
macOS
Need more help?
Answer ID 50396: How to Install and Use WD Drive Utilities Software
My Cloud OS 5
- Run Scan Disk from the Dashboard.
- Run System Diagnostic Test (Quick and Full Test) from the Dashboard.
Need more help?
- Answer ID 30057: Steps to Scan Disk, File System Check and Repair on a My Cloud
- Answer ID 14277: My Cloud OS 5: Perform a Quick, Full, or System Test
My Cloud OS 3
- Run Scan Disk from the Dashboard.
- Run System Diagnostic Test (Quick and Full Test) from the Dashboard.
Need more help?
- Answer ID 30057: Steps to Scan Disk, File System Check and Repair on a My Cloud
- Answer ID 22008: My Cloud OS 3: Run a System Diagnostics Test