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Checking SSD & HDD Health with SMART

Storage drives don't always fail instantly. They often give warning signs via S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology) data.

download Recommended Tool: CrystalDiskInfo

This free utility reads SMART data and gives you a simple "Good", "Caution", or "Bad" status.

Download CrystalDiskInfo

Key Metrics to Watch

  • 05 Reallocated Sectors Count: If this number is increasing, your drive is physically failing. Backup immediately.
  • C7 CRC Error Count (SATA): Often caused by a bad SATA cable, not the drive itself.
  • Total Host Writes (SSD): Shows how much data has been written. SSDs have a limited lifespan (TBW).