USB device not recognized when you plug something in
Windows doesn't recognize what your computer is because the driver is missing or corrupted. Unplug your computer, restart your computer, then plug it back in. Windows will reinstall the driver and your computer will work. This fixes it for almost everyone.
When Windows says a USB device is not recognized, it means the driver. The software that tells Windows how to use that device. Is missing or broken. Restarting your computer clears out the broken driver, and Windows automatically installs the right one when you plug your computer back in. If that doesn't work, uninstalling your computer from Device Manager does the same job.
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Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Trying the same USB port multiple times instead of trying a different one. If one port is broken, another will work
- Not waiting for Windows to finish reinstalling the driver before trying to use your computer. Wait 30 seconds after plugging it in
- Assuming your computer is broken when the problem is with your computer. Test your computer on another computer first
Signs you need professional help
- your computer still isn't recognized after restarting and trying different ports your computer works on other computers but not yours. The port or controller is failing You see error messages in Device Manager that mention driver problems or hardware conflicts
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