The original post: /r/datahoarder by /u/Ascles on 2025-01-22 08:01:40.

I am aware of the fact that this question has been asked before a few times on this subreddit. However, the posts are filled with joke answers. Such as,

• Smell it.
• Start saving for your next hard drive.
• Kiss it.
• Lick it.
• Take it out of the package.
• Send it to me.

Although the humor is nice, it unfortunately does not help newbie data hoarders like me. I recently purchased a new 10 TB hard drive and after mounting it on my PC I don’t know what to do to ensure it is in good condition. My main questions are;

• After some Googling I learned about S.M.A.R.T but it just shows an instant snapshot of the drive I guess? Does it have any other use other than saying it’s “Good” or not?
• I don’t know what software to use to scan and see if there are any bad sectors. What program should I use for it? I use Windows. But answers for Linux and macOS are also appreciated since it would help others who find this post months or years later.
• How long does it usually take for a scan like this to complete?

Thanks a lot <3