Getting Data Error Cyclic Redundancy Check? Fix It in Minutes!

 The data error, Cyclic Redundancy Check, could manifest during an attempt when trying to download a game or transfer files to an external disk. It may appear in the form of a message such as “D:\ is not accessible. Data error (Cyclic Redundancy Check).”

But what is a CRC error, and how can you fix it? This post will tell you all about it, including how you can prevent it from manifesting in the future.  So, read carefully!

Part 1: Overview of CRC Error

Here’s an overview of what is a CRC error and what causes it in detail:

1.1. What Is a CRC Error?

A CRC/ Cyclic Redundancy Check error implies that it is possible that certain files have been mutilated or are incomplete. CRC is a process employed on networks and storage devices as a means of data error checking. 

CRC is a method used in networks and storage devices to check for errors in data. It works by creating a short value from a block of data and attaching it to the data. The value will be recalculated when the data is received or read. When the new value is not equal to the original, then it indicates that the data may possibly be corrupted.

1.2. Reasons Behind Cyclic Redundancy Check Error​

A Cyclic Redundancy Check error​ can be caused by different reasons, such as the following:

1. Incomplete downloads or errors during file creation.
2. Loose or faulty cables, or unstable internet.
3. Bad RAM or a failing hard drive.
4. Electrical Interference can disrupt data transfer.
5. Errors can happen during file transfer.
6. Sudden shutdowns or outages can corrupt data.
7. Registry errors, failed installs, or outdated programs.
8. Viruses/malware can damage or alter files.

Part 2: Rescue Data From a Hard Drive Showing CRC Errors

Before you apply a data error Cyclic Redundancy Check fix, it’s wise to rescue data from the drive first. It is due to the fact that either your disk may be dying, or you may need to reformat it, which would result in the loss of data.

Therefore, in a bid to avert this, a disk with a Cyclic Redundancy Check error needs a specialist disk file recovery software to achieve file retrieval. Tenorshare 4DDiG is the best app one can use in this case. It can retrieve data from unreadable, unbootable, or virus-ridden drives. For more know-how about this tool, check out its key features:

• Has an interactive interface, a few recovery steps, and a high success rate.
• Allows you to pick file types to reclaim from among 2000+ formats.
• Supports data extraction from a vast variety of internal/external storage devices.
• Offers a preview feature to examine recovered files.
• Provides a free trial for Windows users.

Follow the steps below to use this tool to get back lost files

Step 1: Connect the disk with the error to the computer. Then, install and execute the file recovery tool on the same PC.

Step 2: Choose a location to scan. Next, pick the file types you want back. Then, hit “Scan.”

Step 3: Pause or stop the scan. Put keywords and adjust tags if you’ve found your desired files. Hit “Recover” to export them to your computer or cloud.

Part 3: 5 Ways to Fix Data Error Cyclic Redundancy Check​

Here’s how you can apply a data error (Cyclic Redundancy Check) fix in 5 ways. Start with the most basic solution, that is, rectifying a connection problem, and proceed to reformatting the disk:

Solution 1: Check Cables & USB Ports

Sometimes, a data error (Cyclic Redundancy Check) happens when trying to download a game. Other times, this error can occur during file transfers. This could be caused by a loose or faulty connection between your computer and the external disk. So, check that your storage device is properly connected and getting enough power. 

Inspect the cables for damage or wear, and try a different one if needed. Also, check the ports for dirt or damage. Test other ports or connect the device to another computer to figure out if the problem is with the cable, device, or computer.

Solution 2: Run CHKDSK on Your Disk

Bad sectors or corruption in the file system can also result in a CRC error. Thus, you can use CHKDSK, a Windows-embedded utility, to scan for these issues. Here’s how to employ a data error Cyclic Redundancy Check fix using CHKDSK:

Step 1: Type “cmd” in the Windows search menu. Then, execute “Command Prompt” with admin privileges. 

Step 2: Input the following command. Hit “Enter” afterward:

• chkdsk [drive letter]: /f /r /x 

Solution 3: Run an SFC Scan

If file system corruption is leading to a data error (Cyclic Redundancy Check) when trying to download a game, execute an SFC scan. It’s also a Windows-embedded utility that can scan for corrupt files and then replace them with a cached copy. Here’s how to use it:

Step 1: Type “cmd” in the Windows search menu. Then, execute “Command Prompt” with admin privileges. 

Step 2: Input the following command. Hit “Enter” afterward:

• DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

Step 3: Afterward, input the following command. Hit “Enter, next:”

• sfc /scannow

Solution 4: Format the Affected Drive

Another data error Cyclic Redundancy Check fix is to format the drive if the above solutions don’t repair it, and the file system is corrupted. This method is also ideal in case your disk becomes RAW as a result of the CRC error. Follow the instructions beneath to format the drive:

Step 1: Open “File Explorer.” Then, right-click on the affected disk​. Choose “Format.”

Step 2: Pick a proper file system for your drive. Tick mark “Quick Format.” Hit “Start.”

Solution 5: Replace the Drive

If CRC still shows up, your disk might be physically corrupt. When such happens, you are able to send the drive to repair or recovery facilities in order to restore it and get important information out of it. When the data is not vital to you, then you just replace the disk.

Part 4: How to Prevent CRC Errors in the Future?

Once you repair the CRC error, there is no assurance that it will not appear again. Therefore, you will be required to take some crucial measures to avoid the occurrence of CRC errors in your storage media. Here’s what to do:

1. Use a quality cable to connect the device to your computer.
2. Make copies of your disk on another drive or cloud.
3. Update disk drivers periodically.
4. Run tools like CHKDSK once a month to get rid of file system errors. 
5. Keep cables away from electromagnetic interference and maintain cooling to avoid overheating the disk.
6. Monitor your drive’s health using Smart tools.
7. Avoid unplugging the disk without removing it safely with the ejection feature.
8. Use a backup power like a UPS to prevent interruption of file transfer during an electricity shutdown.

Final Thoughts

We’ve answered your query,  “What is a CRC error and how to fix it,” in the post above. What is A data error (Cyclic Redundancy Check) usually means there’s a problem with your files, storage device, or connection. This error occurs during the process of file transfer, downloading, or when using external drives. It can be repaired by making some basic modifications, such as checking the connection, running CHKDSK or SFC, or formatting the drive.

But before fixing anything, rescue your data first. A tool like 4DDiG Data Recovery is great for this. It can recover files from damaged, unbootable, unreadable, or corrupted drives, supports many file types and devices, and allows you to choose your desired file types to reclaim.

About the Author: Mark is a tenured writer for NewsWatch, focusing on technology and emerging trends. Mark gives readers insight into how tomorrow’s innovations will transform our relationship with technology in everyday life.