Back up important files first
Check the drive’s SMART status
On Windows, open Command Prompt as administrator and run `wmic diskdrive get status`
On Windows, run `chkdsk C: /f /r` for the system drive
On Windows, use `wmic` or your drive maker’s diagnostic tool for a full test
On macOS, open Disk Utility and run First Aid
On Linux, run `sudo smartctl -a /dev/sdX`
On Linux, run `sudo badblocks -sv /dev/sdX` if you need a surface test
Use your drive manufacturer’s diagnostic utility for a deeper check
Restart the computer if the tool asks for an offline scan
Replace the drive if SMART shows failing attributes or the diagnostics report errors