Common causes include missing USB drivers, especially with USB 3.0, or missing storage drivers for SSDs. This error can also be due to outdated or incompatible installation media, wrong BIOS settings like Secure Boot or UEFI/Legacy mode, or a wrongly formatted or corrupted installation USB drive. In this article, we will discuss several ways to solve this error.
1. Download Disk Drivers via Another Device
When this error occurs, Windows cannot find the required disk drivers. If your operating system is functional, download the drivers on that device. If it’s not, use another device with internet access to download them. Then, select the correct drivers based on your processor type and model.
2. Activate the Partition
Sometimes, the system doesn’t know where to install Windows. Activating a partition points it to the right part of the drive for the operating system, preventing installation problems.
3. Format Your Disk
Formatting your disk can resolve the error by removing all existing data and resetting it to a clean state. This process prepares the disk for a fresh installation with a new file system, eliminating software conflicts or corrupted data that might prevent Windows from recognizing the disk. Keep in mind that formatting erases all data on the disk, so ensure you back up any important files beforehand.
Boot from the installation media and start Windows setup.Click Next, then select Repair your computer to enter the Windows Preinstallation Environment.Choose Troubleshoot, then Command Prompt.Launching Command PromptType diskpart to access DiskPart.List disks with list disk and select the target disk:select disk XNote: Replace “X” with the target disk number.Type clean to clear the disk.Cleaning disk using DiskPart utilityCreate a new primary partition:create partition primaryFormat the partition with NTFS:format fs=ntfs quickFormatting the Disk to NTFSType exit and try installing Windows again.
4. Reset Motherboard BIOS Settings
Restoring the motherboard BIOS settings to default can fix the error by clearing misconfigurations, incorrect boot orders, or disabled ports that may cause issues. This action re-enables the disk controller mode needed for the Windows installer to recognize storage devices, promoting a smooth installation process.
5. Create Windows Installation Media
Creating Windows installation media can resolve the problem by providing a fresh copy of the Windows setup files with the latest drivers and updates. This replaces any missing or outdated drivers causing the error with the correct versions needed for your hardware during installation. Essentially, it creates a clean slate that can help overcome issues related to corrupted or incompatible installation files. If none of the above methods work, your USB flash drive or hard disk could be at fault, which might be why you cannot see the drives during Windows installation. In such cases, consider taking your computer to a repair shop for further diagnosis.
