I was working in Microsoft Word with several browser windows open when the laptop froze while switching applications. The display then went black, followed by a brief message saying something had gone wrong and the computer needed to restart. The progress stayed at 0%, and the message disappeared quickly.
The laptop then entered an HTTPS network-boot screen. After I selected my college Wi-Fi, it stayed on "obtaining IP address" for 30–60 seconds before reporting that HTTPS boot could not find an IP address. After dismissing that message, the laptop displayed "hard drive - not installed," along with support links, a QR code, and a Continue button.
The laptop does physically contain an SSD. The manufacturer's support information suggests replacing the drive, but I would like to know whether this could be a loose connection or another issue. Is there anything I should do to protect my files or the laptop before shutting it down or changing settings?
2 Answers
This strongly suggests the laptop can no longer detect its internal SSD. Since the drive is missing, the normal boot process fails and the firmware falls back to network/HTTPS boot instead. First, shut the laptop down completely, disconnect power, and—if you’re comfortable opening it—remove and reseat the SSD and its connector. A loose connection can cause this, although a failed SSD is also a real possibility. If reseating it does not help, the drive may need to be replaced.
Avoid changing random BIOS settings or repeatedly trying to boot from the network. If the SSD becomes visible again, copy important files immediately. If the data is especially important, minimize power cycles and consider having the drive examined or cloned before attempting repairs, since continued use can make a failing drive worse. The crash may have been the result of the SSD failing, rather than the HTTPS boot problem itself.
I’m surprised it happened after only about three and a half years, but I’ll try checking the connection before assuming the drive is dead.