SSD Not Detected in BIOS

May 27, 2024 by JEYI Innovation

Why My SSD Is Not Detected in BIOS

Experiencing the BIOS not detecting SSD can be concerning, especially when you rely only on your SSD for storage. To ensure proper data access, you must troubleshoot the problem. Understanding the main cause can help you find a quick solution. Here are some common causes of why BIOS may not detect SSD:

Loose or Faulty Data Cables If the SATA and NVMe data cable connecting the SSD to the motherboard is loose or damaged, the BIOS won't detect the drive. A faulty power cable can prevent the SSD from receiving power.
Drive Issues SSDs can fail due to manufacturing defects or physical damage. Moreover, the older motherboards may not be compatible with newer SSD models.
BIOS Settings Incorrect BIOS settings or outdated BIOS can lead to SSD detection issues. Moreover, the drive won't appear if you haven't enabled in the BIOS.
Firmware or Driver Updates Outdated SSD firmware or missing drivers can cause detection problems. Keeping the SSD's firmware and drivers up to date is essential for proper functionality.
Hardware Issues Issues with other hardware components, such as a malfunctioning motherboard, faulty ports, or a defective PSU, can indirectly affect SSD detection.
Secure Boot Settings Secure Boot is a security feature in some BIOS settings. If Secure Boot is enabled and the SSD's bootloader isn't recognized as secure, it may prevent the SSD from being detected.
Physical Damage Physical damage to the SSD drive, such as a bent connector or water damage, can cause it to malfunction and go undetected.

8 Ways to Fix BIOS Not Detecting SSD

Addressing the common causes can help resolve the problem of SSD not detected in BIOS. Follow the steps to fix the BIOS not detecting SSD issues.

  1. Fix 1. Troubleshoot Hardware Faulty
  2. Fix 2. Disconnect Other Drives
  3. Fix 3. Run Hardware & Devices Troubleshooter
  4. Fix 4. Format SSD Drive
  5. Fix 5. Configure SSD Settings in BIOS
  6. Fix 6. Update BIOS
  7. Fix 7. Reset BIOS Settings to Default
  8. Fix 8. Update Device Drivers

Fix 1. Troubleshoot Hardware Faulty

Most of the SSD issues are due to hardware failures, I.e., broken cables and wrong connection. Check your hardware for these problems:

Step 1. Power off your computer. Find the SATA or NVMe data cable and fix them. Check if the power cable is properly connected to your SSD drive.

Step 2. Insert the SSD drive into the SATA port.

Step 3. Check if SSD is now detected in the BIOS.

Step 4. Reset the BIOS settings to default.

Fix 2. Disconnect Other Drives

If the two drives are incompatible, they may hinder other devices' performance and visibility. Follow the steps to solve this issue:

Step 1. Remove all the drives. Plug the SSD drive and restart your computer.

Step 3. Enter BIOS.

Step 4. Check if the SSD is showing.

Step 5. If not, reconnect the other drives. Check the SSD detection after each reconnection.

Fix 3. Run Hardware & Devices Troubleshooter

The best way to solve any issue with your computer is to run Troubleshooter. Its main function is to detect and solve any issues affecting user experience. Use your Hardware and Drive Troubleshooter to solve SSD issues.

Step 1. Go to "Settings".

Step 2. In Settings, click on "Update & Security".

Step 3. Select the "Troubleshoot" option.

Step 4. Under Hardware and Devices, click on "Run the troubleshooter".

Step 5. It will scan your hardware and devices for any problems.

Step 6. The troubleshooter will try to fix the problem automatically.

Step 7. Once the troubleshooter is finished, it will let you know if it was able to fix the problem.

Fix 4. Format SSD Drive

An SSD drive containing malware or viruses may not work well on your computer. The only solution to clean your drive is to format it.

Step 1. Press the "Windows key + R". It will open the Disk Management tool.

Step 2. Open the SSD drive and select "Format".

Step 3. Select the file format and allocation unit size. The most common file system for SSDs is NTFS. The allocation unit size can be left at the default setting.

Step 4. Click "OK".

Fix 5. Configure SSD Settings in BIOS

BIOS are sometimes configured not to allow new SSD drives containing specific settings. Configuring SSD settings in BIOS can help you find a solution.

Step 1. Boot up your computer.

Step 2. Open the Boot menu in BIOS.

Step 3. Configure the SSD settings. The exact option name may vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer.

Step 4. Save your changes and exit BIOS.

Fix 6. Update BIOS

An outdated BIOS may not work well with SSD drives. Update your BIOS version to make it compatible with your SSD.

Fix 7. Reset BIOS Settings to Default

BIOS is set to accept all SSD drives by default. If your BIOS is not detecting the SSD, the reason can be unintentional settings change. Resetting the BIOS settings to default to check if it works.

Step 1. Restart your computer.

Step 2. Press "F9", and a window will open asking, "Load Setup Defaults?".

Step 3. Select the "Yes" option and press "Enter".

Step 4. Save your changes and exit BIOS.

Fix 8. Update Device Drivers

The SSD drivers play a vital role in your SSD working and making it visible to BIOS. If the drivers are outdated, you may not access your SSD drive.

Step 1. Open Device Manager.

Step 2. Select "Update driver" for updating drivers.

Step 3. Select the option "Search automatically for updated driver software".

Step 4. Windows will automatically search for and install the latest driver for your SSD.