Which of the following solutions should be tried first when troubleshooting hardware recognition issues on a PC?

When troubleshooting hardware recognition issues on a PC, checking all physical connections should be the first step. This approach is logical because many hardware recognition problems stem from simple connectivity issues. Loose or improperly connected cables can prevent the system from recognizing devices such as hard drives, graphics cards, or peripherals.

By verifying all physical connections, you ensure that everything is securely connected, which can often resolve the issue. If the hardware is physically disconnected, misaligned, or not powered properly, the operating system will not detect it, and troubleshooting at the software level would be unnecessary and inefficient.

The other options, while they may be valid troubleshooting steps, are more complex and time-consuming. Running a disk diagnostic tool or resetting BIOS settings are actions that may be taken if connectivity issues are ruled out, and reinstalling the operating system would typically be a last resort, considering the potential for data loss and the time required for reinstallation. Starting with the simplest solution—checking physical connections—ensures a more efficient and effective troubleshooting process.