"Device not recognized" (Code 28, 43, etc.). Solutions

You may have encountered that annoying “Device not recognized” message when trying to connect a USB, printer, or any other accessory to your computer. Although annoying, this type of problem is more common than you might think, and there are simple solutions to remedy it.

In this article, we are going to analyze all the causes and solutions for unrecognized devices in Windows. We also offer some tips to prevent this error from happening again in the future.

Why is my USB device or peripheral not recognized?

There are a variety of reasons why Windows may display the "unrecognized device" message. Knowing the common reasons will help you better identify the root of the problem and apply the appropriate solution. These are the most common causes:

• USB port problems: Ports can become worn or damaged with use, preventing proper physical connection.
• Failure of the cable or the device itself: If the USB, hard drive, or accessory has been hit, damaged, or simply failed, it may not be recognized by any device.
• Corrupt or outdated drivers: Drivers manage communication between Windows and devices. If they become corrupted or outdated, errors are inevitable.
• Power Misconfigurations: Windows may be configured to save power by turning off USB ports, causing the peripheral to disappear.
• Internal Windows errors: Sometimes a pending update or a faulty installation of system components can cause this conflict.
• BIOS/UEFI Problems: If the motherboard firmware is outdated, incompatibilities with newer devices may occur.

Common errors and common messages

Among the most common messages and errors when connecting a USB, external drive, printer, or any other accessory, the following stand out:

• USB device not recognized
• Device descriptor request failed
• Error code 43 in Device Manager
• The device is not shown in File Explorer
• The device cannot be accessed

Quick first steps to detect the problem

Before embarking on technical solutions to the "device not recognized" problem, it's a good idea to check some basic aspects that can save us a lot of time:

• Restart your computer: A simple reboot resolves temporary errors and frees up blocked resources.
• Test the USB port with another device: If that port works with other accessories, the problem is with the device. If it doesn't recognize other devices, the problem is with the computer.
• Change USB port: It is possible for one port to be damaged while others are working properly.
• Check the device on another PC: If it is not detected on another computer either, it is probably defective.
• Disconnect other USB devices: Sometimes port overload or a conflict between devices can cause the failure.

Detailed solutions for each case

If after these steps the problem persists, we show you the most effective solutions depending on the cause:

Update Windows and drivers

Have Windows and all the updated drivers It's essential. Recognition issues are often fixed by installing pending updates. Follow these steps:

1. Open Configuration in the start menu.
2. Access Updates and security.
3. Select Windows Update and press on Check for updates.

For update USB drivers:

1. Press Windows + R and write devmgmt.msc to open Device Manager.
2. Expand the section Universal serial bus controllers and locate your USB device (it may have a warning icon).
3. Right-click and select Update driver software.
4. Choose the option of Automatically search for updated driver software.

If automatic update does not resolve the issue, try uninstall the driver and restart the computer for Windows to reinstall it.

Reinstall or repair drivers manually

Sometimes the driver becomes corrupted and requires a complete reinstallation or choose the right one manually:

1. From Device Manager, select your USB device and right click on Uninstall device.
2. Restart your computer so that Windows can reinstall the default driver.
3. If it is not solved, from the same menu try the option Update driver > Search for driver software on your computer and then Allow you to choose from a list of available drivers.
4. Select the Generic USB Hub and press Following.

Change USB Root Hub settings

Windows often turns off USB devices to save power, and this can cause them to disappear until the PC is restarted. Then we're presented with the dreaded "device not recognized" message. Disable this option to avoid interruptions:

1. Open Device Manager and go to Universal serial bus controllers.
2. Double-click on USB Root Hub.
3. On the tab Energy management, uncheck the box Allow the computer to turn off this device to save energy.
4. Repeat the process for all USB root hubs and restart your computer.

Disable Windows Fast Startup

The Quick Start feature may cause conflicts with external devices after reboots and shutdowns. Disable it by following these steps:

1. Open the control Panel and go to Hardware and sound > Energy options.
2. Select Choose what the power button does and then Changing settings is currently unavailable.
3. Uncheck the option Enable fast startup and save the changes.

Scans hardware for changes and runs the troubleshooter

After making recent hardware or software changes, or if you have connected a new device, It is useful to check for changes manually or run the built-in Windows troubleshooter:

1. Connect the problematic USB.
2. Open the Device Manager, click on Action > Look for hardware changes.
3. You can also launch the Hardware Troubleshooter by typing msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic in the Run box (Windows + R).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to apply the suggested fixes.

Disable USB selective suspend

Selective suspend is a feature that suspends USB ports to save power, but it can cause random disconnections and the "unrecognized device" message. To prevent this, you can do the following:

1. Open the control Panel > Energy options.
2. Click on Change plan settings of your active energy profile.
3. Access Change advanced power settings.
4. Expand USB Configuration and then USB selective suspend configuration.
5. Make sure it is in Deactivated both 'on battery' and 'plugged in'.
6. Apply the changes and restart the system.

Update your computer's BIOS/UEFI

La BIOS or UEFI on your motherboard manages low-level support for external devices. If your PC is relatively old or you've never updated the BIOS, Incompatibility with modern devices or power management issues may arise.

1. Go to the official website of your motherboard manufacturer/laptop brand.
2. Find the support section and download the compatible BIOS update.
3. Follow the manufacturer's official steps to update the BIOS. Do so with extreme caution (you risk rendering your PC unusable if the process is interrupted).

Note: Back up your data before updating the BIOS.

Specific solutions according to the error shown

When the message is more explicit, it allows you to fine-tune the solution:

Unknown USB Device (Device Descriptor Request Failed)

1. Scan for hardware changes as instructed.
2. Use the troubleshooter.
3. Disables USB selective suspend.
4. Update the BIOS if none of the above works.

Error code 43 in Device Manager

1. Update or reinstall USB drivers.
2. Disconnect all devices and connect only the problematic one.
3. Try another PC to rule out physical failure.

How to prevent it from happening again

Performing certain habits can reduce the likelihood of the unrecognized device error reappearing:

• Always use the safe eject function before removing a USB or external hard drive. This prevents logical damage to the device and file system.
• Do not force connections or remove devices abruptly. A simple pull can damage pins or cause internal disconnections.
• Regularly update Windows and all drivers to maintain optimal compatibility.
• Check the status of the ports and cables: Do not use damaged or low-quality USB cables or hubs.

What if it can't be fixed?

If you've tried all the methods and your device still isn't working, there are two possibilities:

• If the device does work on another PCThe problem lies within your system. A Windows format or restore may be necessary to resolve internal conflicts.
• Si is not recognized on any computer, it's probably physically damaged. In these cases, professional recovery services are an option, especially if the hard drives or flash drives contain valuable files.

While unrecognized device errors are frustrating, most can be resolved by following the proper steps. Keep your system up-to-date, maintain ports and cables, and don't hesitate to seek diagnostic tools or technical support if the problem persists. Now you have all the information and steps at hand to resolve almost any device recognition issue in Windows.