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.

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.
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.