How To Fix Internal Hard Disk Detected But Not Accessible? [2026 Easiest Guide]

Sometimes, your computer might show that your internal hard drive is there. But when you try to access it, you can’t actually get to your files.

Causes Of Internal Hard Disk Detected But Not Accessible

There are several reasons why you are seeing the internal hard disk detected but not accessible issue.

Some of them are explained below:

How To Fix ‘Internal Hard Disk Detected But Not Accessible’ Issue ? 

Method 1: Change Drive Ownership

At times, encountering an error message stating that a drive is inaccessible may signal the necessity of adjusting the owner status within the Windows operating system.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Begin by right-clicking on the inaccessible hard drive, then select the “Properties” option.

2. Navigate to “Security” > “Advanced“

3. Modify the ownership settings for the specific account on the “Owner” tab.

Method 2: Check And Repair File System 

If file system issues are preventing access to the hard drive, you should check and repair it using these steps.

• Press “Windows Key + X” and select “Windows Powershell (Admin)“.
• In the Windows Powershell window, type “chkdsk /f [drive letter]:” (e.g., “chkdsk /f E:”) and press Enter.

• If there are issues, a message will ask if you want to schedule the disk check for the next restart. Type “Y” and press Enter.
• Restart your computer, and Windows will check and repair the file system during boot.

Method 3. Check Disk Errors 

1. Open “This PC” (or “My Computer”) and right-click on the problematic hard drive.
2. Select “Properties“, go to the “Tools” tab, and click “Check” under the Error Checking section.

3. If there are issues, a dialog box will appear; select “Scan and repair drive“.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to fix any errors detected during the scan.

Method 4. Reconnect And Replace Cables 

Sometimes the resolution to internal hard disk detected but not accessible issues is as simple as reconnecting or replacing the cables. If you notice damaged cables, replace them with new, functioning ones.

But remember: Power off your computer and unplug it from the electrical outlet before disconnecting any cables.

Method 5. Remove Malware Or Viruses

Malware or viruses can encrypt or lock files, making them inaccessible. Run a full system scan using reliable antivirus software.

Then follow the software’s instructions to quarantine or remove any detected malware or viruses.

Method 6: Change Drive Letter For Internal Hard Disk Detected But Not Accessible 

Changing the drive letter can resolve accessibility issues related to conflicting drive letter assignments.

1. Press “Windows Key + X” and select “Disk Management” from the menu.

2. Locate the inaccessible drive. It will be labeled with its current drive letter (e.g., “D:” or “E:”).
3. Right-click on the drive you want to change the letter for and select “Change Drive Letter and Paths“.

5. Choose an available drive letter from the drop-down menu, or click “Add” to assign a new, unused drive letter. Make sure it does not conflict with existing drive letters.
6. Click “OK” to confirm the change. You may receive a warning that programs or shortcuts relying on the drive letter may not work correctly; proceed if you’re sure about the change.

Windows will adjust the drive letter, and you should now be able to access the drive under its new letter.

What If Nothing Can Solve Your ‘Internal Hard Drive Is Detected But Not Accessible’ Issue ?

If none of the issues fix your internal hard disk detected but not accessible issue, you might be world about losing your data.

All’s not lost yet.

Even if the drive isn’t accessible, data recovery is possible.

The best way to recover data when an internal hard drive detected but not accessible is to...

Reliable software, like Stellar Data Recovery software, is effective for retrieving data. Even from an inaccessible hard drive due to file system corruption or errors.

However, in many cases, the cause of the problem is physical.

When an internal hard disk is detected but not accessible, physical issues might be the culprit.

Unlike software-related problems, these physical damages typically cannot be fixed with software tools.

Here are key physical causes:

1. Physical Trauma: Drops or impacts can harm the disk’s internal parts.
2. Wear and Tear: Continuous use can degrade the mechanical parts over time.
3. Faulty Read/Write Heads: Damaged or misaligned heads hinder data access.
4. Platter Damage: Even minor scratches can render data unreadable.
5. Motor Failure: If the motor doesn’t spin the platters, data access is blocked.
6. Firmware Issues: Corruption in the hard drive’s firmware can prevent data retrieval.
7. Overheating: Excessive heat can damage the disk’s components.
8. Contamination: Even minute particles entering a hard disk can cause disruptions.
9. Electrical Surges: Sudden power spikes can harm the drive’s electronics.

If you encounter these issues, software recovery won’t suffice.

Instead, professional data recovery services with specialized environments, like Class 100 cleanrooms, are necessary.

Avoid DIY fixes for physical damages to prevent further data loss. Always consult professionals for the best chance at data retrieval.

Reach out to our data recovery experts to explore the chances of recovering data from your hard drive and to get details about recovery costs.

Our hard drive data recovery services are the best in class as we:

• Have the highest industry success rate in recovering data from Hard Disks.
• Ensure 100% data privacy
• Have Class 100 Clean Rooms
• Have a No-Recovery-No-Charge policy.

Request your free hard drive data recovery quote today.