How to Fix Kingston SSD Not Detected

Roxanne updated on Nov 12, 2024 to Partition Master | How-to Articles

This EaseUS guide reveals reasons why your Kingston SSD not detected and provides 5 easy solutions to fix the issue. Read on to discover common causes and solutions for Kingston SSD detection problems.

Kingston Solid-State Drives (SSDs) are renowned for their exceptional performance and reliability. However, users may encounter Kingston SSD Not Detected issues. This could cause desperation, especially when you rely on your storage device for important data. It's crucial to figure out the exact reasons for applying the solution accordingly.

In this EaseUS guide, we will provide valuable insights into troubleshooting the Kingston SSD Not Detected error. You'll discover reasons and effective solutions that can help you resolve this issue quickly and efficiently. So follow this tutorial to fix SSD detection problems with ease.

Overview of Kingston SSD Detection Issues

When a Kingston SSD is not detected, users may notice it is missing from Windows File Explorer, making data inaccessible. Error messages like "Identity failed" or "Not initialized" may appear, or the drive might not show up in BIOS/UEFI settings, signaling connection, or configuration problems. Here's an overview of some common reasons why a Kingston SSD might not be recognized:

  • Outdated Firmware: An SSD running on outdated firmware may not be compatible with newer systems or may have bugs that prevent detection.
  • OEM Drives: Kingston SSDs pre-installed by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) might have specific configurations that affect recognition in specific setups.
  • Connection Problem: Faulty or loose connections, damaged cables, or improper installation prevent the SSD from being detected by the system.
  • Disk/Partition Initialization Issues: If the SSD is new and hasn't been initialized or partitioned, it may not appear in the operating system, as the disk hasn't been prepared for use yet.
  • Incorrect BIOS/UEFI Settings: In some cases, misconfigured BIOS or UEFI settings can prevent the system from detecting the drive, requiring adjustments to these settings.
  • Missing Drive Letter: Even if the SSD is recognized, it might not be assigned a drive letter, making it inaccessible in File Explorer.

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How to Fix Kingston SSD Not Detected - 5 Ways

In this section, we'll discuss and learn how to fix Kingston SSD Not Detected. We've compiled a comprehensive list of 5 solutions to resolve this issue quickly.

Way 1. Check Physical Connections

To troubleshoot the issue, you first need to thoroughly check the SSD's connection. Start by gently unplugging the Kingston SSD from its current port to ensure there are no loose or poorly seated connections. Then, carefully reinsert the SSD into the same port or try a different one, making sure it's secure. Once you've done this, check if the problem still exists or if the SSD has been detected.

Way 2. Initialize the Kingston SSD

If the SSD is new or uninitialized, it won't show up in your system until it's properly initialized and partitioned. To do this, you can use either EaseUS Partition Master or the built-in Disk Management tool in Windows.

Option 1. EaseUS Partition Master

EaseUS Partition Master Free is a powerful disk management tool that can help you initialize and partition your Kingston SSD. Unlike Disk Management, this tool offers more features, like partition recovery and resizing options, that make it ideal for everyone.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Open EaseUS Partition Master and got to Partition Manager.

Step 2. Right-click the target disk - HDD or SSD and select "Initialize to MBR" or "Initialize to GPT". Click "Execute Task" and "Apply" to save the changes.

0:00-0:18 Initialize to MBR; 0:19-0:44 Initialize to GPT;

Features of EaseUS Partition Master:

Try EaseUS Partition Master for its ease of use and versatility.

Option 2. Disk Management

You can also use Disk Management to check your Kingston SSD. If the drive appears but shows as "Not Initialized," it won't be visible in File Explorer. Thus, you need to initialize the SSD to either MBR or GPT and then create partitions to make it visible.

Follow the steps to initialize a Kingston SSD:

Step 1. Open Disk Management and right-click the uninitialized SSD. Select Initialize Disk.

Step 2. Choose either MBR or GPT, based on your needs.

Step 3. Click OK to apply the changes.

At this stage, you must create partitions and assign drive letters to make it usable.

Follow the steps to create partitions on a Kingston SSD:

Step 1. Right-click the unallocated space and select New Simple Volume.

Step 2. In the new window, click Next.

Step 3. Set the desired volume size, then click Next.

Step 4. Assign a drive letter and click Next to proceed.

Step 5. Choose a file system, add a volume label, and click Next.

Step 6. Finally, click Finish to complete the process.

Way 3. Update Firmware

Outdated SSD firmware can lead to compatibility and detection problems. Thus, update your Kingston SSD firmware using the Kingston SSD Manager application. If an update is available for your SSD, KSM will alert you and display the relevant firmware release notes within the interface. Back up your data before proceeding to avoid potential data loss.

Here's how:

Step 1. Visit Kingston's website to download and install the Kingston SSD Manager (KSM).

Step 2. Run KSM with Administrator Privileges.

Step 3. Choose the SSD that you want to update.

Step 4. If any update is available, click the Firmware Update button to start the process.

Way 4. Add a Drive Letter

At times, the SSD is recognized by the system but lacks a drive letter, causing it to be hidden in File Explorer. Assigning a drive letter can resolve this issue. You can do this by using EaseUS Partition Master or Disk Management. EaseUS Partition Master Professional offers an easier way to assign or change a drive letter with just a few simple clicks.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Run EaseUS Partition Master, right-click the target partition, and choose "Change Drive Letter".

Step 2. In the new window, click the down arrow and choose a drive letter for the partition from the drop-down menu, then click "OK".

Step 3. Click the "Execute 1 Task(s)" button in the top-left corner, check the changes, and click "Apply" to change the drive letter of the selected partition.

Way 5. Check SSD for Errors

If the SSD is detected but not working properly, it might have errors that need to be fixed. You can check the drive for errors using EaseUS Partition Master or by running CHKDSK in Windows.

Option 1. EaseUS Partition Master

EaseUS Partition Master Professional offers an easy way to scan and repair SSD errors with just a few clicks. It's faster and more efficient than running CHKDSK, as it provides a visual guide and additional repair options.

Follow the steps:

Step 1. Open EaseUS Partition Master on your computer. Then, locate the disk, right-click the partition you want to check, and choose "Advanced" > "Check File System".

Step 2. In the Check File System window, keep the "Try to fix errors if found" option selected and click "Start".

Step 3. The software will begin checking your partition file system on your disk. When it completes, click "Finish".

Option 2. Run CHKDSK

You can also execute the CHKDSK through Command Prompt to scan and fix SSD errors. Follow the steps:

Step 1. Type CMD in the Windows search box, right-click Command Prompt, and click Run as administrator.

Step 2. In the Command Prompt, type chkdsk E:/f/r/x and press Enter. Replace with the drive letter of your SSD.

Conclusion

By carefully following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you should be able to resolve the Kingston SSD detection issue and restore its functionality. Remember to check physical connections, initialize the SSD, update firmware, add a drive letter, and scan for errors.

For a hassle-free solution, EaseUS Partition Master offers convenient and efficient fixes for various SSD-related issues. With additional features like SSD health monitoring, partition resizing, and easy error correction, EaseUS Partition Master stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly option.

FAQs

Do you have more queries about Kingston SSD not detected? Check out the FAQs below!

1. Why is my Kingston SSD not detected in BIOS?

Common reasons for an SSD not being detected in BIOS are incorrect BIOS settings or loose connections.

2. Why isn't my SSD showing up in File Explorer?

It could be due to a missing drive letter or the disk not being initialized. You can resolve this through Disk Management by assigning a letter or initializing the drive.

3. How do you tell Kingston SSD is corrupted?

Signs of a corrupted Kingston SSD include slow performance, data loss, error messages, or physical damage if you suspect corruption, back up your data immediately.

Related Reading: How to Tell If a Hard Drive Is Corrupted