M2 SSD Not Showing Up in BIOS can be a common yet frustrating issue that prevents your system from recognizing the drive.
This problem often arises due to incorrect BIOS settings, loose hardware connections, outdated drivers, or compatibility concerns. Sometimes, a failing SSD or software conflicts may also be the culprit.
Identifying the root cause is crucial to fixing the issue and ensuring your M2 SSD functions properly. In this article, we will guide you through the potential causes and provide clear, step-by-step solutions to resolve the problem, making your M2 SSD detectable and operational.
Causes of M2 SSD Not Showing Up in BIOS
Here are some potential causes why M2 SSD Not Showing Up in BIOS:
BIOS/UEFI Settings: Sometimes the settings in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI might be set up incorrectly. Make sure the M2 slot is turned on and set as the boot device if necessary.
Hardware Connection: If the M.2 drive isn’t properly connected or is loose, it might not be detected. Verify the connections one more time, and then firmly replace the M.2 drive.
Driver Issues: If the drivers for your M.2 drive or motherboard are missing or outdated, your system might not recognize the drive. Ensure your drivers are current.
Compatibility: Check if your M.2 drive is compatible with your motherboard, especially in terms of size and whether it supports NVMe or SATA protocols.
Drive Health: If your M.2 drive is failing or malfunctioning, it might not show up. Try using the drive on another computer or use diagnostic tools to test its condition.
Software Conflicts: Sometimes, other software or disk management tools can interfere with your drive being recognized. Look for any software conflicts and turn off any unnecessary utilities.
M.2 SSD Not Detected in BIOS Laptop/PC
Here, you have two options for resolving the BIOS problem. We recommend using Fix One first. Disassembling the computer and reinstalling the hard drive is the second fix, which could be challenging for a novice.
Method 1: How to Set Up Your M.2 SSD?
Step 1: Configure Settings in BIOS
Step 2: Restart your PC and press F2 or Delete to enter the BIOS menu.
Step 3: Go to the SATA Configuration section and set it to IDE Mode.
Step 4: Press F8 to save the changes and exit BIOS.
Method 2: Reinstall the M.2 SSD to Solve Detection Issues
Step 1: Turn Off Power
For a desktop: Turn off the PC and unplug the power cable.
For a laptop: Remove the battery if possible.
Step 2: Open the Case
Desktop: Use a screwdriver to remove the case panel.
Laptop: Unscrew the back panel to access the internal components.
Step 3: Reinstall the M.2 SSD
For Desktops:
1: Locate the M.2 connector on the motherboard (usually labelled SATA or PCIe).
2: Unscrew the mounting screw next to the slot.
3: Insert the M.2 SSD into the slot and secure it with the screw.
For Laptops:
1: Open the M.2 slot cover.
2: Slide the M.2 SSD into the slot.
3: Tighten the screw to hold it in place
Make Sure the M.2 SSD is Installed Correctly
Make sure the drive is installed correctly if your M.2 SSD isn’t showing up in the BIOS. It might not be noticed if the drive is not connected correctly.
This can be fixed by carefully removing the M.2 SSD and then reconnecting it. Make sure the SSD is inserted into the M.2 slot firmly and securely to guarantee a proper connection.
M.2 SSD Not Showing in Disk Management
Using the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter, assigning a drive letter, or updating the drivers is some options if your M.2 SSD is not visible in Disk Management. This is how to resolve it:
Method 1: Update M.2 SSD Driver
Step 1: Press the Windows + X shortcut keys, then select “Device Manager” from the menu.
Step 2: Click to expand the “Disk Drives” section.
Step 3: Right-click on the M.2 SSD and select “Update Driver.”
Step 4: Click “Search automatically for updated driver software.”
Step 5: Allow the update to complete, and then restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Method 2: Assign a New Drive Letter
Step 1: Access “Disk Management” by searching for it in the Windows search bar.
Step 2: Right-click on the M.2 SSD listed and chooses “Change Drive Letter and Paths.”
Step 3: Select a new drive letter, and confirm by clicking “OK.”
Method 3: Use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Step 1: Enter “Hardware and Devices” in the Windows search bar and open it from the search results.
Step 3: Initiate the troubleshooter by clicking “Next.”
Step 4: Follow the prompts to identify and fix any detected issues.
These steps should help your M.2 SSD appear and function correctly.
Conclusion
If you’re M2 SSD Not Showing Up in BIOS, it can be due to various reasons such as incorrect settings, loose connections, outdated drivers, or compatibility issues.
By following the troubleshooting steps like adjusting BIOS settings, reinstalling the SSD, or updating drivers, you can resolve the issue effectively.
If these steps don’t work, testing the SSD on another system can help determine if it’s faulty. Proper diagnosis and timely fixes ensure your SSD functions as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my M.2 SSD not Showing up in the BIOS?
Your M.2 SSD might not appear due to incorrect BIOS settings, loose connections, outdated drivers, or compatibility issues with your motherboard.
How Can I Fix the BIOS Settings for my M.2 SSD?
Press Delete or F2 to access the BIOS after restarting your computer. Ensure the M.2 slot is enabled and set the SATA configuration to IDE or the correct protocol for your drive.
What Should I Do if my M.2 SSD is not Properly Installed?
Switch your computer off, take out the SSD, and then put it back into the M.2 slot firmly. Ensure its secured with the mounting screw.
Can Outdated Drivers Cause my M.2 SSD to Disappear?
Yes, outdated drivers can prevent the BIOS from recognizing your M.2 SSD. To fix the problem, update your drivers through Device Manager.
What if my M.2 SSD is Still not Detected after Troubleshooting?
If the SSD is still not detected, test it on another computer or use diagnostic tools to check its health. The SSD might be faulty and require replacement.
