This issue usually occurs due to the storage device failing as the periodic read and write wears off the lifespan of the device. However, even if your storage device is not problematic, other causes like outdated device drivers, damaged motherboard headers, and conflicting drive letters can also cause this problem. So, in this article, we have compiled a list of fixes to help you get rid of this error message.
How to Fix “A Device Which Does Not Exist Was Specified” Error?
Before you begin, make sure your storage device is working properly. You can plug the storage device into another computer to check if it works there. Also, make sure to check in different ports. Then, go through the solutions we have listed below.
Update Drivers
The disk drivers connect your computer’s system and the storage device. If the driver faces issues like improper installation or corruption, you can face errors like not being able to access the drive or files. You can try updating the drivers to resolve this issue. If updating your drive doesn’t fix the issue, you can try reinstalling the disk drivers. Lastly, make sure your motherboard drivers are updated to the latest version. You can check the latest drivers of your motherboard on the manufacturer’s official website and download it from there if your motherboard drivers are not up-to-date.
Run CHKDSK Command
Windows OS has a built-in method of troubleshooting disk issues called the CHKDSK scan. You can run this scan from the Command prompt to see if it fixes the issue. While you may need to have the drive mounted for this command to work properly, even if your drive is inaccessible, you can still try this fix.
Change Drive Letter
You can also face this particular issue if you have multiple drives, some of which have conflicting drive letters. Also, the error message may display one drive letter, but the same disk drive has another drive letter in Disk Management. If you have this kind of conflicting drive letter issue, you would have to change the assigned drive letter of the problematic disk.
Recreate Drive Partition
If the above methods don’t work, you can try fully formatting and recreating the drive partition. It will fix any minor errors in the device’s configuration and recreate the file system for it. Here’s how you can do it:
Check Motherboard Headers
If your internal drive is facing this issue, and the above methods didn’t fix the issue for you, you may need to check your motherboard headers. The motherboard headers are connectors built for connecting to various devices, including the HDD and SSD. If they are damaged, you will need either physical repair or replacement to fix this issue. It would be best for you to visit a service center to have the necessary repair done.
Replace the Storage Media
Lastly, you may need to replace the storage device if they are damaged beyond repair. Most storage devices have a lifespan of three to five years, as the years of read and write function will eventually damage the device beyond repair. If your device has been in use longer than that, maybe it is time to consider a replacement. Additionally, you can try recovering some of the data on the device using third-party data recovery software. Also, if your device is newly bought but still shows the error, the device could have been defective from the start. You may have to contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
