Tutorial: Fixing Windows 11 Not Detecting SSD/HDD

This tutorial guides you through solving a common issue where Windows 11 doesn't detect an SSD or HDD. Follow these steps to ensure your storage drive is recognized and functioning properly.

Preliminary Steps

1. Check Physical Connections:

   • Ensure your SSD or HDD is properly connected.
   • For desktops, verify SATA or NVMe cables are secure.
   • For laptops, ensure the drive is seated correctly.

2. Verify BIOS/UEFI Settings:

   • Restart your PC and enter BIOS (usually by pressing F2, Delete, or Escape).
   • Navigate to the storage section to check if the SSD or HDD is detected.

Installing/Updating Storage Drivers

1. Through Device Manager:

   • Open Device Manager from the Start menu.
   • Expand "Disk Drives". If the drive appears with a yellow warning, it may need a driver update.
   • Right-click the drive, select "Update Driver", and choose "Search automatically for drivers".

2. Manual Driver Installation:

   • If automatic updates fail, download drivers from the manufacturer's website (Intel, Samsung, Western Digital, etc.).
   • Run the installation program and follow instructions to install drivers manually.

Installing Intel Rapid Storage Technology Drivers (for Intel Chipsets)

1. Preparation:

   • Before Windows 11 installation, download the Intel Rapid Storage Technology drivers from Intel's support page.
   • Extract the driver files to a USB flash drive.

2. During Windows Installation:

   • Boot from the Windows installation media.
   • Start the installation process and upon reaching the drive selection screen, select "Load Driver".
   • Insert the USB with the drivers, browse to the driver folder, and select the appropriate file.
   • Continue with Windows installation once the SSD/HDD is detected.

3. Post Installation:

   • Open Disk Management (right-click Start menu > Disk Management).
   • If the drive appears as unallocated, right-click to initialize and format it.

Conclusion

Following these procedures should resolve issues with Windows 11 not detecting your SSD or HDD. Remember to check Disk Management after driver installation and reboot your system to ensure changes take effect.

• If further issues arise or questions remain, assistance through comments is available. Thank you for following along with this tutorial! Have a nice day!