How to fix error 31 in Windows 10 step by step

El error 31 on windows 10 it is a problem that affects multiple devices within Device Manager, preventing its correct operation. This error is usually Related to faulty or incompatible drivers and may make it difficult to use certain hardware components on your computer.

If you have encountered this message on your computer, don't worry. In this article, we will explain in detail What this error means, why it occurs, and how you can fix it with different effective methods.

What is error 31 in Windows 10 and why does it occur?

Error 31 in Windows 10 appears in Device Manager and is usually accompanied by the message: “The device is not working properly because Windows cannot load the drivers required for this device (Code 31)”This problem prevents the operating system from properly using the affected hardware.

The most common causes of error 31 include:

• Damaged or corrupted drivers: If a device driver is corrupted, Windows will not be able to load it correctly.
• Windows updates: In some cases, a system update may affect drivers and cause compatibility issues.
• Lack of proper drivers: If Windows does not find a compatible driver, the device may not function properly.
• Hardware management errors: A problem in the hardware configuration can trigger this error.

Also, error 31 It is not the only problem that can affect drivers in Windows 10. Other common error codes include Error code 10, indicating that the device cannot start, the Error code 43, which states that Windows has stopped the device because it has reported problems, and the Error code 19, which is usually related to corrupted registry entries that affect the functioning of the hardware.

All these mistakes They are usually resolved with driver updates, reinstalling devices, or, in more severe cases, Restoring the system to a previous point.

Solutions to fix error 31 in Windows 10

Below, we leave you several methods to solve this problem on your computer.

1. Update the device driver

Updating the drivers for the affected devices may solve error 31. To do so, follow these steps:

1. Open the Device administrator (you can do this by pressing Windows + X and selecting “Device Manager”).
2. Find the device that has error 31 (identified with a yellow warning icon).
3. Right click on it and select Update Driver.
4. Choose the option Search for drivers automatically.
5. If an update is available, install it and restart the computer.

2. Reinstall the problematic driver

If the update of the driver does not solve the problem, you can try reinstalling it.

1. Open the Device administrator.
2. Right click on the device with error and select Uninstall device.
3. Restart your computer so that Windows detects it again and installs the suitable driver.

3. Install a driver manually

If the system does not find a suitable driver, it is possible install it manually following these steps:

1. Download the device driver from the device page. Manufacturer.
2. Open the Device administrator.
3. Right click on the device and select Update Driver.
4. Choose Browse my computer for drivers and choose the folder where you downloaded the file.
5. Complete the installation and restart the computer.

4. Check for Windows updates

In some cases, installing pending updates Windows may fix the problem.

1. Press Windows + I to open the Configuration.
2. Go to Update and security and select Windows Update.
3. Click on Search for updates and let Windows install the necessary ones.
4. Restart your computer.

5. Check hidden devices in Device Manager

If the error persists, it may help to show hidden devices and remove conflicting drivers.

1. Open the Device administrator.
2. In the menu bar, select View and then Show hidden devices.
3. Find the problematic device and try to uninstall it manually before rebooting the system.

6. Check for hardware conflicts

If the error affects a physical device such as a graphics or sound card, try the following:

• Unplug it and plug it back in if possible.
• If it is a internal card, try changing the PCI slot.
• If the error appears after a hardware upgrade, try restoring the system to an earlier point.

Error 31 on Windows 10 can be frustrating, but by following these steps you can resolve it and get your device working properly again. update Reinstalling drivers is often the most effective solution, but it's also important to check other options such as system updates or hardware settings. If the problem persists, consider seeking help from the manufacturer's website. device manufacturer or in specialized forums.