Seeing the “One of your disks is at risk (SMART Event)” warning on Windows 11 can be alarming, especially if it appears suddenly during startup or while checking your storage health. This message typically indicates that the Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology (SMART) system on your hard drive or SSD has detected potential hardware issues that could lead to drive failure.
SMART is a built-in monitoring system in modern storage devices that tracks various health parameters, such as bad sectors, read/write errors, temperature, and overall drive reliability. When the system detects values outside normal thresholds, Windows or your PC’s BIOS may display a warning indicating that the drive is at risk.
Although a SMART warning does not always mean immediate drive failure, it should never be ignored. In this guide, we will show you how to diagnose and fix the “One of your disks is at risk (SMART Event)” error on Windows 11.
How to Fix “One of Your Disks Is at Risk (SMART Event)” on Windows 11
1. Back Up Your Important Data Immediately
Before attempting any troubleshooting, create a backup of your important files. Since SMART warnings often indicate hardware degradation, protecting your data should be your top priority.
- Connect an external hard drive or USB storage device.
- Copy important files such as documents, photos, videos, and project files.
- Alternatively, upload your data to cloud storage services.
- Verify that your backup is complete and accessible.
Once your data is safe, proceed with the remaining troubleshooting steps.
2. Check the Drive’s SMART Status
Windows provides basic tools to check disk health.
- Right-click the Start button.
- Select Terminal (Admin).
- Run the following command:
wmic diskdrive get status- Review the results.
If the status shows OK, the issue may be temporary. If it shows Pred Fail or another warning, the drive may be failing.
Keep in mind that this command provides only basic SMART information.
3. Use Manufacturer Diagnostic Tools
Storage manufacturers provide diagnostic software that offers more detailed SMART information.
Common tools include:
- Samsung Magician
- WD Dashboard
- Seagate SeaTools
- Crucial Storage Executive
- Kingston SSD Manager
Install the tool corresponding to your drive and run a full health scan.
Pay close attention to:
- Reallocated sectors
- Wear level
- Read/write errors
- Temperature
- Remaining lifespan
These metrics can help determine whether the drive needs replacement.
4. Run CHKDSK to Repair File System Errors
Logical file system corruption can sometimes trigger storage-related warnings.
- Open Terminal (Admin).
- Run the following command:
chkdsk /f /r- Press Y if prompted to schedule the scan.
- Restart your computer.
- Wait for Windows to complete the disk check.
The scan may repair file system errors and isolate bad sectors.
5. Update SSD Firmware
Outdated firmware can occasionally cause false SMART alerts or stability issues.
- Open your SSD manufacturer’s utility.
- Check for firmware updates.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart your PC after the update.
Firmware updates often improve drive stability and compatibility.
6. Check Physical Connections
Loose or damaged cables can sometimes trigger disk warnings.
For desktop PCs:
- Shut down your computer.
- Disconnect the power cable.
- Open the case.
- Verify that the SATA and power cables are securely connected.
- Replace the cables if necessary.
- Close the case and restart your PC.
Laptop users may need professional assistance if the drive is not easily accessible.
7. Monitor Drive Temperature
Excessive heat can affect storage performance and lifespan.
- Use a disk monitoring tool to check drive temperature.
- Ensure the drive operates within the recommended range.
Generally:
- HDDs: 20°C–50°C
- SSDs: 30°C–70°C
Improve airflow or clean dust from your system if temperatures are unusually high.
8. Run System File Checker and DISM
Corrupted Windows files can occasionally affect disk reporting.
- Open Terminal (Admin).
- Run:
sfc /scannow- Wait for the scan to finish.
- Then run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth- Restart your PC.
These tools repair damaged Windows components that may contribute to false warnings.
9. Check BIOS or UEFI for Disk Health Alerts
Some systems display SMART warnings directly in BIOS or UEFI.
- Restart your computer.
- Enter BIOS or UEFI settings.
- Common keys include F2, F10, Delete, or Esc.
- Navigate to the storage or diagnostics section.
- Review the drive health information.
If BIOS also reports a SMART failure, the issue is likely hardware-related.
10. Replace the Failing Drive
If diagnostics confirm that the drive is failing, replacement is the safest long-term solution.
Before replacing the drive:
- Back up all important files.
- Clone the drive if possible.
- Install a new SSD or HDD.
- Reinstall Windows 11 or restore your backup.
Continuing to use a failing drive may eventually lead to permanent data loss.
Conclusion
The “One of your disks is at risk (SMART Event)” warning in Windows 11 usually indicates that your HDD or SSD has detected potential hardware issues. While some warnings may be caused by temporary errors or outdated firmware, SMART alerts often point to a drive that is beginning to fail.
The most important step is to back up your data immediately and run diagnostic tests to assess the drive’s condition. If the storage device continues to report SMART errors, replacing it as soon as possible is the best way to prevent unexpected data loss and system instability.
