How can i fix usb device not recognized​?

How to Fix USB Device Not Recognized

The “USB device not recognized” error is a common problem faced by Windows users. This error occurs when a USB device, such as a flash drive, external hard drive, mouse, or keyboard, is not detected by the computer, leading to frustration and hindering the device’s usability. While the issue may seem daunting, it’s often caused by simple problems such as driver conflicts, power supply issues, or system misconfigurations.

“USB Device Not Recognized” Error

When you plug a USB device into your computer, it should be automatically detected and listed in the device manager. However, in certain cases, Windows might not recognize the device and display an error message: “USB device not recognized.” This message can appear for various reasons, including hardware, software, and compatibility issues.

The error typically appears when you connect a USB device to the computer, and it may be accompanied by one of the following notifications:

“The last USB device you connected to this computer malfunctioned, and Windows does not recognize it.”

“USB device not recognized.”

“Device descriptor request failed.”

The issue can affect both external storage devices and peripherals like printers, keyboards, and mice. Understanding why this error occurs is key to fixing it.

Common Causes of the USB Device Not Recognized Error

Outdated or Corrupted Drivers

The most common reason behind the “USB device not recognized” error is outdated, corrupted, or missing drivers. Windows relies on specific drivers to communicate with connected devices. If the driver is outdated or corrupted, the device won’t be recognized by the computer.

Power Supply Issues

USB devices require a certain amount of power to function properly. If the USB port or the device is not receiving enough power, it can cause connectivity issues. Power management settings in Windows might also interfere with USB device detection.

Faulty USB Port or Cable

Sometimes, the issue might be with the USB port itself. If the port is damaged or malfunctioning, the device won’t be recognized. Similarly, using a damaged or low-quality USB cable can also lead to recognition failures.

Device Compatibility

Certain USB devices may not be compatible with your computer, especially if they require specific drivers or software. Additionally, devices that are not recognized may be designed for a different operating system or require firmware updates.

Conflicts with Other Connected Devices

When multiple USB devices are connected to the computer, it may cause conflicts. The system might be unable to recognize one device while others are connected. This can also occur if there are conflicts in the device manager, especially when multiple devices share the same resources.

Windows Update Issues

Sometimes, Windows updates can cause issues with device recognition. After installing a system update, the USB device might no longer be recognized due to changes in the USB driver or system settings.

Corrupted System Files

Corrupted or missing system files can also prevent USB devices from being recognized. If essential files required for proper device detection are damaged, the operating system may fail to properly interface with the device.

How to Troubleshoot the USB Device Not Recognized Error

Step 1: Basic Checks

Before diving into complex solutions, you should perform a few basic checks:

Try a Different USB Port

If one port is not working, try connecting the USB device to a different port. This will help you determine if the problem lies with the port itself or the device.

Test the USB Device on Another Computer

Plug the USB device into another computer. If the device works on a different system, then the issue is likely with your computer’s settings or hardware.

Test Other Devices on the Same Port

If you have other USB devices, try connecting them to the same port. If they are recognized, the problem is likely with the original device, not the port.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, simply restarting the computer can fix the issue. Restarting can resolve temporary system glitches or conflicts that might prevent USB devices from being recognized.

Step 3: Update or Reinstall USB Drivers

Open Device Manager

Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.

Scroll down and expand the Universal Serial Bus Controllers section.

Update Drivers

Right-click on each entry under Universal Serial Bus Controllers and select Update Driver.

Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search for the latest drivers and install them if necessary.

Reinstall Drivers

If updating the drivers doesn’t solve the issue, right-click on the USB device under Universal Serial Bus Controllers, and select Uninstall Device.

After uninstalling, restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the necessary drivers automatically upon reboot.

Step 4: Check Power Settings

Disable USB Selective Suspend

USB selective suspend is a power-saving feature that may be causing the issue. To disable it:

Press Windows + X and choose Power Options.

Click on Additional power settings on the right side of the window.

Select Change plan settings for the current power plan.

Click Change advanced power settings.

Scroll down and expand the USB settings, then USB selective suspend setting.

Set it to Disabled, and click Apply and OK.

Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup may cause USB devices not to be recognized after a shutdown. To disable it:

Go to Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.

Click Change settings that are currently unavailable.

Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended) under the Shutdown settings.

Step 5: Run Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter for USB problems. To run it:

Press Windows + I to open Settings.

Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

Select Additional troubleshooters.

Click on Hardware and Devices, and then Run the troubleshooter.

The troubleshooter will scan your system for problems and attempt to fix any issues related to the USB device.

Step 6: Check for System Updates

Sometimes, the issue is caused by a missing or incomplete system update. To ensure your system is up-to-date:

Go to Settings > Update & Security.

Click Check for updates.

Install any available updates, then restart your computer.

Step 7: Use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has an automated tool designed to detect and fix hardware issues. To run it:

Press Windows + S and type troubleshoot.

Select Troubleshoot settings.

Under Find and fix other problems, select Hardware and Devices.

Follow the on-screen instructions to run the troubleshooter.

Step 8: Update or Reset the BIOS

In rare cases, an outdated or misconfigured BIOS can cause USB devices not to be recognized. You can update or reset your BIOS to fix the issue:

Check your motherboard manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates.

Follow the instructions to download and install the update.

If you suspect a BIOS configuration issue, you can also reset it to the default settings by entering the BIOS during startup (usually by pressing F2. DEL, or another key depending on your system).

Step 9: Check for Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can prevent USB devices from being recognized. You can use the System File Checker tool to scan and repair these files:

Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for cmd, right-click it, and select Run as administrator).

Type the following command and press Enter:

bash

sfc /scannow

Wait for the process to complete and follow any prompts to repair the files.

Step 10: Check for Malware or Conflicts

Sometimes, malware or software conflicts can prevent USB devices from being recognized. Run a full system scan with your antivirus program, or use Windows Defender to check for potential threats.