An error message like ‘D is not accessible. The parameter is incorrect’ appears when you try to access a drive, and it blocks access to it. In computer terms, the parameter is incorrect meaning that the information you provided is wrong or unexpected. This could be due to a typo, wrong format, or a value that’s not allowed. Although your data is likely still intact with this error, it remains inaccessible until the drive is repaired.
Common Reasons Behind the Parameter Is Incorrect
Several factors can lead to the ‘parameter is incorrect’ error:
- Bad sectors: Damaged sectors on a drive can destroy data, causing this error if essential files are affected.
- Decimal symbol: Due to regional settings, using a decimal symbol other than a period can also cause this issue.
- Corrupted system files: Damage to essential Windows system files can hinder communication between your computer and drive.
- Malware: Viruses can damage important parts of your system, including the hard drive, leading to this error.
- Physical damage: Damage to the drive or USB port can prevent proper reading, prompting this error if only a partial connection is made.
Recover Data From Hard Drives With “Parameter Is Incorrect” Error
The ‘drive is not accessible. The parameter is incorrect’ error will make your drive inaccessible which means you won’t be able to reach your data. Fixing it might require formatting, which will permanently wipe your data, and recovering it will be challenging. Luckily, free data recovery software tools like Tenorshare 4DDiG can be a lifesaver. Here are the main benefits of using this tool:
- Regain data from internal/external Windows-based storage devices (hard disks, SD cards, drones, digital cameras, USBs, etc).
- Extracts 2000+ file types (videos, audio, archives, images, documents, etc).
- Retrieves data from a broad range of data loss situations like corruption, formatting, deletion, etc.
- Offers fast scanning, free technical updates, and a high recovery rate.
- Allows users to recover up to 2GB of data for free.
Follow the instructions below to use this tool to regain files from a drive with the ‘the parameter is incorrect external hard drive’ error:
- Download and install the data recovery tool on your computer and open it.
- Connect your external drive or choose your local drive with an ‘incorrect parameter’ error for scanning.
- You can pause or stop search anytime to preview files into “Tree View” for categories like Lost, Deleted, RAW, etc, and “File View” for different file types such as Photos, Videos, Documents, etc. You can also search for specific files or use filters to narrow down results.
- Once you find your target files, preview them and hit “Recover.” Avoid saving them on the same drive to prevent permanent data loss.
6 Ways to Fix the Parameter Is Incorrect on Windows 11/10
Way 1. Check Connections
A loose cable or faulty USB port can cause signal issues between the computer and drive leading to the ‘the parameter is incorrect Windows 11/10’ error. To fix this issue, securely reconnect the cable to the first USB port or try a different USB port if that doesn’t work. Also, consider connecting the drive to another computer. If you use a USB hub, connect the drive directly to a USB port.
Way 2. Run CHKDSK Tool
The ‘D is not accessible. The parameter incorrect’ error can result from file system errors or damaged areas on the drive called bad sectors. CHKDSK, a built-in Windows tool, scans and repairs these issues. To use it, follow the instructions below:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type
chkdsk D: /f /r /xand press Enter (replace D: with your drive letter). - Allow CHKDSK to complete its scan and repair process.
By addressing these common causes and utilizing robust data recovery tools, users can effectively manage and resolve the ‘parameter is incorrect’ error while ensuring their valuable data remains accessible.