When an error occurs reading the hard disk or a partition problem in Windows, a warning may appear indicating “a disk reading error occurred”. This message is probably followed by the instructions… press Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart, which you should do to see if the problem has been solved.
However, if the computer restarts only to repeatedly display the same error message, you must resolve the problem. These instructions apply to Windows 10, Windows 8 and Windows 7.
What are the causes of disk reading errors
Although the source of this error may vary from one computer to another, there are some common causes, including the following.
- Insufficient RAM.
- Loose or defective connections.
- A hard disk or a corrupted boot configuration data store.
Also read- How To Use The Hard Disk As RAM To Make The PC Faster
How to resolve when a disk read error occurs
Examining potential fixes for frequent reasons of this error could identify and resolve the problem.
1) Try the RAM. A startup problem could be the result of problems with the computer’s memory. You can use Windows Memory Diagnostics by typing mdsched in the Windows Search (or Start Search) box and pressing Enter.
The tool will run automatically when the computer restarts. Alternatively, there are many other free memory test programs you could try.
2) Replace the RAM or if your system has two RAM modules in the system, try swapping their slots. Also, remove the dust by checking them if the dirt interferes.
3) Check the cables. Loose connections or defective cables can cause problems with the startup and errors of the hard disk. Search for disconnected cables. If possible, replace the cables with spare parts. At the very least, disconnect them, inspect the cables for damage and then safely rest them.
4) Try the hard drive. This could mean removing the hard drive from the current machine and connecting it to a working computer, where it can be scanned for bad sectors. This could help you determine if the problem is repairable or if you need a new hard disk drive (HDD) and a new Windows installation.
5) Reset the BIOS. Resetting the BIOS to the default settings may solve the problem. Access the BIOS at startup and look for an option to load the BIOS default settings, which could be one of the following:
- Load BIOS default values
- Load the default settings
- Load fail-safe defaults
6) Alternatively, you can update the BIOS version to the latest available.
7) Defragment the computer. In some circumstances, this may solve the problem. Connect the HDD to another computer to defragment and then try to start it.
8) When it is not possible to start the computer and see a disk reading error, the boot configuration data store (BCD) may be damaged, missing, or incorrectly configured. If this is the problem, rebuilding the BCD could be the solution.
Additionally, you can use the Bootrec.exe tool to resolve other startup problems. For example, the fixmbr command allows you to repair a damaged or damaged Master Boot Record and the fixboot command writes a new partition boot sector.
9) Data backup In some cases, it may be necessary to replace a badly damaged or broken hard drive. In this case, there may still be hope. It is possible that you can recover the files, even if the computer does not startup.
While it may take some effort, using a data recovery program could at least save important files you would like to lose.
