How to get my system to recognize DVDs

nicholasmerolla 20 Reputation points
2026-01-17T20:30:38.2966667+00:00

I bought a used/referbished PC some time ago; it did not have an optical drive; so, I took the drive from my old machine and installed it in the new machine.

I have not had any problems reading and writing CDs for a few years, and still don't.

Recently, I tried to read a DVD in the same optical drive; but, the system would not recognize it. I tried different DVDs with no change in behavior; the system still couldn't read the drive.

I checked the device manager, drivers look to be OK. Below is a screen image of my Device Manager and Drivers screen.

What is the problem?

Thanks!

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Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
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Answer accepted by question author
S.Sengupta 33,256 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
2026-01-18T00:15:19.0166667+00:00

Your DVD laser has failed.

Consider replacing the optical drive. An external USB DVD drive offers an affordable, convenient alternative to installing an internal drive and will fully restore your PC's DVD capabilities.

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  1. Igor Leyko 112.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-01-18T00:06:32.9566667+00:00

    Hi,

    this may be a drive's problem. CD/DVD drive has two separate elements (read-write heads) inside - for CD and DVD - and one common part. Each head reads-writes corresponding disks and common part interacts with PC. CDs are working well - this means the DVD heads are degraded - it is a common process unfortunately. So, drive needs to be repaired or replaced.

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