Struggling with ‘USB Device Not Recognized’? Here’s the Fix (2025)

Troubleshoot and Resolve USB Issues Quickly

Introduction

If you’ve ever plugged in a USB device only to see the dreaded “USB Device Not Recognized” error, you’re not alone. This issue is one of the most common Windows errors, and it can happen due to driver problems, hardware malfunctions, or even power supply issues.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven solutions to fix this problem, whether you’re using Windows 10 or 11.

Common Causes of “USB Device Not Recognized” Error

Before jumping to the fixes, let’s understand what might be causing this problem:

✅ Corrupt USB Drivers – Windows may have trouble communicating with your USB device.
✅ Power Supply Issues – Insufficient power from the USB port can cause failures.
✅ Damaged USB Ports – Physical damage or debris inside the port can prevent proper connection.
✅ Outdated Windows Version – Missing system updates can lead to driver conflicts.
✅ Faulty USB Device – Sometimes, the issue is with the device itself, not your computer.

How to Fix “USB Device Not Recognized” on Windows

Now, let’s go through step-by-step solutions to resolve the error.

1. Unplug and Reconnect the USB Device

The simplest solution is often the most effective. Follow these steps:

• Unplug the USB device and wait for 30 seconds.
• Plug it into a different USB port.
• If possible, try the device on another computer to check if the issue persists.

🔹 If the problem continues, move on to the next fix.

2. Restart Your PC

A simple reboot can refresh system drivers and fix temporary glitches.

• Click Start > Power > Restart.
• Once your PC restarts, reconnect the USB device.

🔹 If the error still appears, proceed to the next step.

3. Update or Reinstall USB Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a major cause of USB issues. Here’s how to fix them:

🔹 Method 1: Update Drivers

1. Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
3. Right-click your USB device and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers.

Note: In this video my USB in universal serial bus controllers was USB mass storage device but yours could be something else depends on the USB type if you are not sure which one u could take it out and then plug it again then u will know !

🔹 Method 2: Uninstall and Reinstall Drivers

If updating doesn’t work, try reinstalling the drivers:

1. Open Device Manager again.
2. Right-click the problematic USB driver and select Uninstall device.
3. Restart your computer – Windows will automatically reinstall the correct driver.

4. Disable USB Selective Suspend

Windows sometimes disables power to USB devices to save energy. This can cause recognition issues.

Steps to disable USB Selective Suspend:

1. Open Control Panel and navigate to Power Options.
2. Click on Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings.
3. Expand USB settings > USB selective suspend setting.
4. Disable this option and click Apply.

5. Run the Windows USB Troubleshooter

Microsoft provides a built-in troubleshooter to fix USB-related issues automatically.

How to Run the USB Troubleshooter

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Additional Troubleshooters.
4. Select Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.

🔹 If Windows detects a problem, follow the suggested fixes.

6. Check for Windows Updates

Missing updates can cause driver compatibility issues. To check for updates:

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

7. Try a Different USB Cable or Device

If you’re using an external hard drive, keyboard, or printer, the cable itself might be the problem.

• Try using a different USB cable.
• If possible, test with another USB device to see if the issue persists.

8. Check for Hardware Issues

If none of the above fixes work, your USB port or device may be faulty.

• Use a compressed air can to clean the port.
• If possible, test the device on another PC.
• If it doesn’t work on any device, consider replacing it.

FAQs About “USB Device Not Recognized”

1. Why does my USB device keep disconnecting?

This is often caused by loose connections, power issues, or driver conflicts. Try a different port, update drivers, or disable USB selective suspend.

2. How do I fix an unrecognized USB drive without losing data?

Try updating the drivers or using the Windows troubleshooter. If the issue persists, check the USB device in Disk Management and assign a new drive letter.

3. Can a virus cause USB device recognition issues?

Yes, malware can affect system drivers. Run a full system scan using Windows Defender or an antivirus program.

Final Thoughts

The “USB Device Not Recognized” error is frustrating but fixable with the right steps. We hope this guide helped you resolve the issue.

🔹 If you found this tutorial helpful, share it with others who might be facing the same problem.
🔹 Need more tech tips? Check out our latest guides!

External References for More Help

• Microsoft’s USB Troubleshooter