Introduction
Do you see the “USB device not recognized” error message when you connect a USB mouse, external hard drive, pen drive, or any other USB-type device? Be patient, we will help you! There are very easy solutions to this frequent Windows error. This guide will give you step-by-step information about its causes and solutions, even if you’re not technically skilled.
When and under what conditions does the “USB Device Not Recognized” error occur in Windows 10 and 11?
Based on our investigation, the ‘USB Device Not Recognized’ error in Windows 10 and 11 can occur due to several possible reasons, such as the ones listed below.
1. A broken or loose USB connection.
Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a dirty or loose USB port. In such cases, Windows may fail to detect the device, resulting in the ‘USB Device Not Recognized’ error.
2. Defective or corrupt USB drivers
Drivers act like interpreters between your hardware and Windows. If they are missing, outdated, or corrupted, Windows may fail to detect your USB device, resulting in the “USB Device Not Recognized” error.
3. Not enough power is reaching the USB port.
Some devices, such as external hard drives or high-speed USB sticks, require more power than normal. The device will not function if the port is unable to supply sufficient power.
4. Outdated version of Windows.
Older Windows versions might not have the drivers or system updates needed to connect to more recent USB devices.
5. Malware interference.
In some cases, malware or unwanted programs can interfere with USB operations by modifying registry settings or disabling ports.
6. The USB Selective Suspend Function.
USB ports that are not in use are turned off by Windows’ built-in power-saving feature. Even though this is helpful, it can occasionally unintentionally disable open ports.
7. Hardware-level port or BIOS issues.
Sometimes there may be a physical defect in the motherboard, or the BIOS has disabled your computer’s USB ports.
What should you do when you see “USB device not recognized” in Windows 10 or 11?
Below are 9 practical and tested solutions that work in most cases. Follow them in order until your device starts working.
1. Restart Your PC
Sometimes simply restarting the machine is enough to fix the USB device problem.
- Remove the USB device.
- Restart your PC from Start → Power → Restart
- Once the system restarts, plug the USB back in properly.
Note: Often, this basic step fixes temporary errors.
2. Try Another USB Port or Device
Sometimes our port is fine, but the device is bad; then check it by connecting it to another port or any other computer.
- Plug the device into a different port (try both the front and back of the PC).
- Try the same USB device on another laptop or computer.
- Use a different USB cable if applicable.
Note: If the device works on another system, then the issue lies in your computer, not the device.
3. Update USB drivers via Device Manager.
One of the most common causes is an outdated or missing USB driver.
- Windows + X, then M, is a shortcut that allows you to access the Device Manager.
- Expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers
- Each USB Root Hub can be right-clicked to select ‘Update Driver’
Note: Repeat this process for all USB-related entries.
4. Uninstall and reinstall troublesome USB drivers.
If updating doesn’t resolve the corruption, you can try uninstalling it and reinstalling Windows.
- Go to Device Manager & locate your USB with the error symbol.
- Right-click and go to Uninstall Device.
- Restart your PC/laptop, and the driver will reinstall automatically.
Note: This is a good approach to get rid of broken drivers.
5. In the Power Settings, turn off USB Selective Suspend (Power Saving Feature).
Windows might be turning off your USB port to save power.
- Control panel → Power Options → Change Plan Settings
- Set USB selective suspend to Disabled.
Note: Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
6. Run SFC and DISM to Repair System Files
Corrupted system files can prevent Windows from detecting hardware like USB devices. To fix this, run both System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) commands together.
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, and right-click on Command Prompt → select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
sfc /scannowDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthWait for both scans to complete. Make sure you’re connected to the internet for the DISM scan.
Restart your PC when the process finishes.
Why this works:
These commands repair missing or damaged Windows files and restore the system image, ensuring your PC can detect USB devices properly.
7. Check for Windows Update
Make sure your Windows is fully updated with the latest drivers.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- If updates are available, download and install them.
- Restart your PC.
Note: Sometimes, Microsoft releases driver patches via updates that fix this problem instantly.
8. Scan for Malware
Malware has the ability to corrupt the registry, change drivers, and block ports.
- Use Windows Security or Malwarebytes.
- Execute a full scan and remove threats.
- Restart the computer and replug the USB after cleaning.
9. Check USB in BIOS/UEFI.
- Restart and press F2, DEL, or ESC to enter BIOS/UEFI.
- Navigate to USB Configuration.
- Make sure the USB controller is enabled.
- Save and exit BIOS.
10 Additional Tips to Avoid the “USB Device Not Recognized” Error in Windows 10/11
1. Clean USB Ports Regularly.
Clean the dust accumulated in the ports with a soft brush or blower.
2. Always Eject USB Safely.
Before removing it, use the “Successfully Remove Hardware” option.
3. Avoid Plugging During Boot.
Do not connect any USB devices while the pack is booting.
4. Keep Windows Updated.
Avoid compatibility issues by installing the latest Windows updates.
5. Update USB Drivers.
Update drivers regularly by going to Device Manager.
6. Use Branded & Original USB Devices.
Cheap and duplicate devices can fail quickly.
7. Avoid Overloading USB Hubs.
Do not connect multiple devices to a single hub.
8. Use Rear USB Ports for Stability.
Rear ports in desktop PCs provide a more stable power supply.
9. Scan for Malware Regularly.
Malware may disable USB functionality, so scan with an antivirus.
10. Store USB Devices Properly.
Store USB devices away from extreme heat, water, and dust.
FAQ About the “USB Device Not Recognized” Error in Windows 10/11
1. Can my USB drive be harmed by this error?
No, but if you repeatedly eject the USB incorrectly or use faulty drivers, data corruption may occur.
2. Should I format the USB to fix this issue?
Format only if the data is backed up and works fine on other computers.
3. Can a damaged USB cable cause this problem?
Yes, damaged and poor-quality cables can create device detection issues.
4. What should I do if my USB is not detected at all?
Try another port, change the cable, or check on another computer.
5. Can malware cause ‘USB device not recognised’ errors?
Yes, malware can disable USB ports or block the device by changing registry settings.
6. Is there a way to fix this without restarting my PC?
Yes, you can try disabling and enabling USB controllers in Device Manager.
7. Can BIOS settings affect USB detection?
Of course, if USB ports are disabled in BIOS, then they will not be detected in Windows.
8. Do outdated drivers cause this problem?
Yes, outdated drivers are a common cause of USB detection issues.
9. Will using a USB hub affect detection?
Cheap or low-power USB hubs can create detection problems, especially for high-power devices.
10. What if my USB works on another PC but not mine?
In this case, the problem is with your computer’s USB ports, drivers, or Windows settings, not the device itself.
Conclusion and Recommendations
You may confidently resolve the “USB Device Not Recognised” error by following the preceding instructions. These easy fixes take care of any problem, whether it’s a driver problem or a malfunctioning port.
Recommendations:
Keep your Windows and USB drivers up to date to avoid future detection issues.
Always eject your USB devices safely to prevent data corruption.
Use high-quality, branded USB devices for better performance and reliability.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others facing the same problem and check out our other troubleshooting tutorials.
If the USB issue still persists, you can check the official Microsoft
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