How to fix the request failed due to a fatal device hardware error?

[David James]

I’m getting this error on my external hard drive: 'The request failed due to a fatal device hardware error.' Has anyone dealt with this before? Is there any way to fix it or recover my data?

 

[jainnaman561]

Hi @David James, I also noticed this on my device sometime back. But at that time, there was a glitch that was resolved permanently. David, you must try some basic techniques to resolve your query. Make sure to follow all of them without making such mistakes. Check out the steps given below.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Check physical connections and reconnect the drive. Then try using a different USB port or cable.

Use Windows Tools

• Open Command Prompt as administrator and run:
• chkdsk X: /f /r /x (don't change the letters after the colon, only change "X" with your current drive)
• (Replace X: with the correct drive letter on your device.) This will show if any system errors or bad sectors into the device.

Use Disk Management

• Press Win + X → Disk Management
• Look for the drive status. If any portion is not allocated, then allocate it with a new volume.

Check SMART Status
Use tools like CrystalDiskInfo to check the drive’s health via S.M.A.R.T. data. If it shows caution or a bad status, the drive is failing.

Update Drivers or BIOS

• Go to Device Manager → Disk Drives → Right-click → Update driver.
• Also, check your motherboard BIOS for updates.

Note: Before making any changes or updates, make sure to take a backup and a previous version of Windows to help you restore your device properly.

Hope this helps you out!

 

[meena]

I’m getting this error on my external hard drive: 'The request failed due to a fatal device hardware error.' Has anyone dealt with this before? Is there any way to fix it or recover my data?

Yes, the error "The request failed due to a fatal device hardware error" usually means your external hard drive is physically failing. Here’s what you can do:

1. Try a different USB port or cable – sometimes it's just a connectivity issue.
2. Check in Disk Management – see if the drive appears and if it's initialized.
3. Use recovery software – tools like Recuva or EaseUS can sometimes retrieve data.
4. Stop using the drive if it’s clicking or making noises—this may cause more damage.
5. Consult a professional data recovery service if the data is critical.

Act quickly if your data is important!

 

[Peaky Blinders]

A "fatal device hardware error" usually indicates a failing hard drive or SSD.

Steps to fix:

1. Check cables and connections.
2. Run CHKDSK utility.
3. Use SMART tool to check drive health.
4. Update disk drivers.
5. Replace the drive if errors persist.