Try every scenario to really pinpoint the source.

The moreadvanced diagnostic softwareis also available for a cost from various developers.

It won’t truly fix a hard drive that’s physically failing.

Frustrated person looking at a computer that’s making “click click” noises

Derek Abella / Lifewire

Chances are, the hard drive will continue to fail until it’s completely unusable.

The permanent solution is to complete a backup of your system and replace the hard drive.

External hard drivesmake noises, too.

HDDScan v4.0 in Windows 8

HDDScan.

These noises arise when the drive connects to the computer because of a power- or cable-connection problem.

Afragmentedhard drive generates additional drive activity.

See ourFile Recovery FAQif it’s crucial that you get your files off of a failing hard drive.

SeeHow to Update Drivers in Windowsto learn how to update a hard drive driver.

Other Noises a Computer Can Make

The hard drive isn’t the only component in a computer.