Alex Ruben
How to Resolve USB Device Not Recognized Issues in Windows 10
This guide will take you through the necessary steps to diagnose and fix USB device recognition issues in Windows 10. If you’re having trouble with your system not recognizing USB devices, following these steps can help you quickly restore functionality.
Step 1: Update the USB Drivers
Start by ensuring that your USB drivers are up to date:
- Right-click on This PC and select Manage.
- In the left panel, click on Device Manager.
- Locate the section labeled Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click on the Unknown USB Device and select Update driver.
- If prompted, choose Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the instructions.
Step 2: Adjust Power Settings
Sometimes, USB devices do not work properly due to power settings. Here’s how to adjust them:
- Press the Windows key and select Settings.
- Click on System, then navigate to Power & Sleep.
- On the right side, click on Additional power settings.
- Click on Change plan settings next to your selected power plan.
- Then, click Change advanced power settings.
- Expand the USB settings, then USB selective suspend setting.
- Set both On battery and Plugged in options to Disabled.
Step 3: Troubleshoot USB Device
If the USB device is still not recognized, try to troubleshoot the issue:
- Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and open it.
- Click on Hardware and Sound.
- Locate and right-click on the Unknown USB Device and select Troubleshoot.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to detect and fix problems.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Always ensure your Windows is up to date by checking for updates in the Settings menu. If the USB device still isn’t recognized after trying all the steps above, it could be due to a faulty USB device or port. Try using a different USB port or another computer to further isolate the issue.
Conclusion
In this tutorial, we outlined straightforward steps to assist you in resolving USB device recognition issues in Windows 10. By following these methods, you should be able to identify and fix common USB issues, enabling your device to function properly again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my USB device is still not recognized?
If the device is not recognized after trying the suggested steps, consider testing it with another computer. If it fails to work there as well, the device itself may be defective.
How can I check if my USB ports are working?
You can perform a simple test by connecting a different USB device to see if it is recognized by your computer. If it works, the USB port is functional.
Can I recover data from an unrecognized USB device?
Data recovery from an unrecognized USB device can be complex. If the device is physically intact but not recognized, software tools may help. However, if it’s damaged, professional data recovery services might be necessary.
