Windows & BSOD · medium

How to fixUSB-DEVICE-NOT-RECOGNIZED

USB Device Not Recognized

What this error means

USB Device Not Recognized is a medium-severity Windows operating system issue. Windows shows the 'USB Device Not Recognized' notification and the device is not functional. Typical causes include USB port providing insufficient power and USB root hub driver error. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

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
01Connect to a rear USB port directly on the motherboard

Connect to a rear USB port directly on the motherboard.

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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02Uninstall USB controllers in Device Manager and reboot

Uninstall USB controllers in Device Manager and reboot.

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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03Try a different USB cable

Try a different USB cable.

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

  • Corrupted USB descriptor on the device
  • USB port providing insufficient power
  • USB root hub driver error

Useful Windows tools

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

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