Drivers · medium

How to fixCODE-10-DEVICE-CANNOT-START

Code 10 - This device cannot start

What this error means

CODE-10-DEVICE-CANNOT-START shows up as a medium-severity system driver fault. Windows Device Manager reported that the device could not start due to a failure to load or a faulty driver. Another common trigger is incompatibility with the. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Reinstall the driver via Device Manager

Reinstall the driver via Device Manager.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Try the Hardware Troubleshooter

Try the Hardware Troubleshooter.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Install an older working version of the driver

Install an older working version of the driver.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Bad, missing or outdated driver
  • Incompatibility with the
  • system Physical device failure (eg sound cards, Bluetooth)

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review any action inside the tool before applying changes.

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