1. Check for corrupted files on the external drive by running chkdsk /r. See the first link.
2.If that does not solve the problem run a free utility like seatools for windows. All hard drives will fail at some point even though they have not been dropped, etc. This could be a warning that windows cannot read the files on the hard drive and it is going to fail.
3. Wire and cables can fail but are very much less likely to fail than any mechanical part unless they are subject to abuse.
$ . Consider putting a copy of your important files on the cloud. Google for online file storage and you will get a lot of hits for free and paid services.
1. Check for corrupted files on the external drive by running chkdsk /r. See the first link.
2.If that does not solve the problem run a free utility like seatools for windows. All hard drives will fail at some point even though they have not been dropped, etc. This could be a warning that windows cannot read the files on the hard drive and it is going to fail.
3. Wire and cables can fail but are very much less likely to fail than any mechanical part unless they are subject to abuse.
$ . Consider putting a copy of your important files on the cloud. Google for online file storage and you will get a lot of hits for free and paid services.