Many users have reported experiencing issues with their NVMe M.2 SSDs disappearing from Windows after a system reboot following a Windows update. This can lead to frustratingly slow boot times and can hinder system performance. In this article, we will explore the problem, the potential causes, and practical solutions to help you recover your SSD and improve boot times.
Understanding the Problem
After a Windows update, users may find that their NVMe M.2 SSD is no longer detected by the operating system. This could manifest as an unrecognized device in the BIOS, or the SSD may not show up in the Disk Management utility. Consequently, this can result in slower booting times, as the system might attempt to boot from an alternative or faulty device.
Original Code for the Problem Scenario:
NVMe M.2 SSD missing after a Windows update reboot + slow booting time since
Causes of the Problem
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Driver Issues: Windows updates often include driver updates that can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with hardware, including SSDs.
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BIOS Settings: An update might inadvertently change the boot order or other settings in the BIOS, causing the SSD to become unresponsive.
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Corrupt Windows Installation: If the update didn't install correctly, it may corrupt essential system files, leading to hardware detection issues.
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Firmware Issues: The SSD itself might require a firmware update to ensure compatibility with the latest version of Windows.
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Hardware Failures: Although less common, it's important to rule out the possibility of hardware malfunctions, especially after significant system changes like updates.
Troubleshooting Steps
Step 1: Check BIOS Settings
- Restart Your Computer: Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing a key like F2 or DEL during startup).
- Verify Boot Order: Ensure your NVMe SSD is listed as a boot option. If not, check if it's recognized at all.
- SATA Mode: Ensure that the SATA configuration is set correctly (AHCI is recommended).
Step 2: Update or Roll Back Drivers
- Device Manager: Open Device Manager (Right-click on the Start Menu and select Device Manager).
- Locate Storage Controllers: Check for any exclamation marks next to NVMe controllers.
- Update Driver: Right-click and select 'Update driver' to look for a newer version.
- Roll Back Driver: If issues began after a driver update, consider rolling back the driver.
Step 3: Check Disk Management
- Open Disk Management: Right-click the Start Menu and select Disk Management.
- Look for Unallocated Space: If the SSD appears as unallocated, you may need to create a new volume or initialize the disk.
Step 4: Update SSD Firmware
- Visit the Manufacturer’s Website: Look for firmware updates specific to your NVMe SSD model.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided to avoid damaging the drive.
Step 5: Perform System Restore
- Access System Restore: Search for 'System Restore' in Windows Search and follow the prompts to revert to a previous point before the update.
Step 6: Reinstall Windows
- If all else fails and you suspect corruption, consider backing up your data and performing a fresh installation of Windows.
Conclusion
Experiencing an NVMe M.2 SSD missing after a Windows update reboot can be alarming, but with the steps outlined above, users can systematically diagnose and resolve the issue. Slow boot times may be improved by addressing these underlying problems.
Additional Resources
By following these guidelines, users can enhance their understanding of SSD issues and regain optimal performance on their systems. Stay informed about future updates and always back up your data to prevent loss during troubleshooting.
