Why hard disks click
Clicking usually means the read/write heads cannot read the platters properly. Causes include damaged heads after a drop, weak heads due to age, or firmware problems.
Switch it off now
Every time a clicking disk runs, damaged heads can scratch the platter surface where your data is stored. Scratched platters can make recovery impossible. Switch it off and do not try 'one more time'.
Avoid dangerous tricks
Do not freeze the drive, hit it, or open it. Opening a drive outside a controlled clean environment allows dust onto the platters.
What professional recovery involves
Diagnosis identifies the cause. Physical cases may need component work in a controlled environment, followed by careful imaging of the disk. We explain all of this, and the cost, before starting.
Important: Switch the drive off if it makes unusual sounds. Stop using the drive immediately.