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External hard drive not recognized

The drive does not appear in the file browser · A message asks to format the drive · The drive makes a clicking or spinning sound

Peripherals & hardwareDifficulty 2/315 minLow risk

Applies to: Windows, Mac, Other

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Initial troubleshooting steps

Unplug and reconnect the device, trying a different cable or port.
Restart the computer with the device connected.
Update or reinstall the device driver.
If the problem continues, contact IT with the device make and model.