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Cambium Data has been serving the Omaha area since 2009, providing IT Support such as technical helpdesk support, computer support, and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses.
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# These Signs Tell You a Hard Drive is On Its Way Out
[Cambium Data Blog](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/categories/blog) [Technology](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/categories/technology)
[Tony Underwood](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/blogger/tony-underwood)
Monday, 16 September 2024
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The demand for digital storage has skyrocketed over time. While hard disk drives (HDDs) once dominated the market, solid-state drives (SSDs) are now becoming more popular thanks to their speed, durability, and increasing affordability.
That said, HDDs are still in wide use, though they are far more susceptible to failure compared to SSDs. So, how can you spot the signs that your hard drive might be on the verge of failing?
Today, we break it down.
## The Current State of HDDs
Typically, an HDD will last between four and eight years under normal conditions. Heavy users can expect their drives to fail on the shorter end of that range. HDDs depend on moving parts to operate, and while they’re fairly reliable at first—with only about 5% failing in the first year—the likelihood of failure increases with time. After three years, 12% fail, and by eight years, that number jumps to 50%.
## Common HDD Problems
Because HDDs constantly write and overwrite data, wear and tear is inevitable, eventually leading to failure. Be on the lookout (or listen, rather) for unusual clicks or grinding noises—these are classic signs that your HDD is approaching the end of its life. A noticeable slowdown in performance is another red flag that the drive may be about to give out.
The most obvious sign your HDD needs to be replaced is when you frequently get the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD). This critical error signals that it’s time to either back up your data or install a new drive—ideally, you’ll do both.
## Why You Should Consider SSDs for Your PC
If you’re ready to upgrade, SSDs are a great alternative. Not only are they significantly faster than HDDs, but they also have no moving parts, which makes them less prone to mechanical failure. With data stored electronically, SSDs are more reliable, especially in mobile devices. Under the same conditions, an HDD would wear out much more quickly. You’d also find it difficult to fit a reliable HDD that would fit in a small device like a smartphone, so there’s that.
## Ensuring Your Business Has the Right Hardware
It’s crucial that your business is equipped with the best technology. We’re here to make sure your hardware is optimized for your needs, properly implemented, and managed for long-term success. To learn more, give us a call at (402) 514-3200.
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Tags:
[Hardware](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/tags/hardware) [Backup](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/tags/backup) [Data](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/tags/data)
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About the author
[  ](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/blogger/tony-underwood)
[Tony Underwood](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/blogger/tony-underwood)
[ ](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/blogger/tony-underwood)
Tony Underwood, Founder and President of Cambium Data Inc. has proven himself as one of the top internetworking experts in the industry. Mr. Underwood began his IT career in 1991 in the US Navy working on critical military computer systems. He grew his computer and networking knowledge through a number of different IT jobs from desktop support all the way up to leading the Network Engineering organization of a multi-billion dollar international company. Mr Underwood was recognized as Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert [\#7112](https://connect.directive.com/v4_6_release/services/system_io/Service/fv_sr100_request.rails?service_recid=7112&companyName=Dti) in March of 2001 and in 2022 he achieved the lifetime status of Cisco CCIE Emeritus
Author's recent posts
[More posts from author](https://cambiumdata.directivesites.com/blog/blogger/tony-underwood)
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