WD External Hard drive not recognized in my computer

I was experiencing the same problem. My unit (passport essential) worked once at the time of my original backup

and then never again. Each time I plugged it in on the same or alternate computer

I would consistency get a error message " USB device not recognized" with no apparent fix.

I was mad as heck. Finally, after pressing really hard on the cable input at the drive end

I was able to get my computer to recognize it. I know it sounds crazy, but I was

able to get it to work long enough to restore my files. This unit is a piece of ■■■■

and not up to WD standards. I will seek replacement.