Alex Ruben
Fixing “No Device Drivers Were Found” Error on Windows 10/11/7/8
Encountering the “No device drivers were found” error can be a frustrating experience for users of various Windows operating systems, including Windows 10, 11, 7, and 8. This guide is designed to assist you in resolving this issue effectively, whether you are using a laptop, desktop, or tablet—regardless of the manufacturer, be it Dell, HP, Acer, Asus, Toshiba, Lenovo, or Samsung. By following these detailed steps, you will learn how to troubleshoot and fix this error, ensuring successful installation of your operating system.
Step 1: Check Your BIOS Settings
The initial step in addressing the “No device drivers were found” error involves verifying your BIOS settings. Access the BIOS setup by restarting your computer and pressing the designated key during the boot process—commonly F2, Del, or Esc, depending on your device. Once in the BIOS, ensure that the SATA configuration (under the Advanced or Integrated Peripherals tab) is set to the correct mode for your installation. If using an SSD, AHCI mode is often preferred. After making any necessary adjustments, save your settings and exit.
Step 2: Prepare a Bootable USB Drive
If the error persists, the next step is to ensure your installation media is properly configured. To create a bootable USB drive for Windows installation, use the Windows Media Creation Tool, which can be downloaded from the official Microsoft website. Launch the tool, select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC,” and follow the prompts to select language, edition, and architecture. Once created, insert the USB into your computer and proceed to boot from it in the BIOS settings.
Step 3: Load Drivers During Installation
During the installation process, if prompted with the “No device drivers were found” message, click on “Browse” to manually locate the drivers for your hardware. It’s useful in this step to have a USB drive with the necessary drivers downloaded ahead of time from the manufacturer’s website, specific to your hardware model. Use the USB drive to navigate to these files when prompted.
Step 4: Try Different USB Ports or Drives
Sometimes, the issue can arise from using a non-compatible USB port or installation drive. If you’re using a USB 3.0 port, try switching to a USB 2.0 port, as some older systems may not support USB 3.0 during the installation. Additionally, if you have multiple USB drives at your disposal, try a different USB drive, as corruption in the initial drive can lead to the error.
Step 5: Updating the BIOS
In some cases, an outdated BIOS can contribute to compatibility issues with hardware drivers during installation. Visit the manufacturer’s website for your device and check for any available BIOS updates. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to update your BIOS, as improper updates can lead to system instability.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
As you embark on the process of fixing this error, keep these key tips in mind: ensure all connections are secure, and remember that external devices can sometimes interfere with installation—unplug any non-essential devices. If you find that the error persists despite following all steps, consider reaching out to the manufacturer’s support for further assistance, as hardware issues could also be a factor.
Conclusion
Successfully resolving the “No device drivers were found” error is crucial to finalizing your Windows installation. Following the steps outlined in this guide will equip you with the knowledge necessary to address this issue effectively. If you encounter further challenges, additional resources and guides are available to assist you in simplifying your computing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the “No device drivers were found” error?
This error typically arises from compatibility issues between the operating system installer and hardware drivers, often linked to outdated BIOS, improper configurations, or issues with the installation media.
Can I use third-party drivers to fix this issue?
Yes, as long as the drivers are compatible with your hardware and downloaded from a reputable source. It’s advisable to stick to the manufacturer’s drivers for best results.
Is this guide applicable for all Windows versions?
Yes, the instructions provided are suitable for Windows 10, 11, 7, and 8, and they can be utilized on all major hardware manufacturers.
