What does error code 10 mean in Device Manager and how to fix it?

After purchasing a new PC peripheral, the worst thing that can happen is that we can't use it because the system doesn't recognize it. In these frustrating cases, we see the Code 10 error in Device Manager. What does this error mean and how can we fix it? Get ready to do it yourself.

What does error code 10 mean in Device Manager?

Let's start by understanding what the Code 10 error in Device Manager means. If you're a Windows user, you'll know that Device Manager is a direct window to your system's hardwareIf any component fails, that's where warning signs appear, including Code 10.

Basically, Code 10 is a generic error code that indicates that Windows cannot communicate properly with a deviceThe full message reads: "This device cannot start (Code 10)", as you can see in the image above. It means the device has been physically detected, but Windows can't "talk" to it to get it to initialize and work.

Does this mean the peripheral is damaged? It could be, but it's almost always a software problem, not a hardware one. The Code 10 error in Device Manager appears when the driver cannot be loaded correctly. It may also be due to internal system conflicts or failed updatesOf course, a damaged USB port or a faulty cable can mimic a software error, but this is rare.

Common devices affected by Code 10

You see the Code 10 error in Device Manager when the system cannot properly load drivers for a component. The problem is that You don't know you have the error until you try to run that component.How can I resolve this issue? A simple way is to go to Device Manager:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Find the device that is having problems. It is easily identified because it has a yellow warning icon.
3. Right click on it and select Properties
4. In the General, You'll see the device status message. If you see the message "This device cannot start (Code 10), you know what it means.

Any internal or peripheral component can start to show this type of problem. Even those that have been in use for a long time may after a driver or general system updateThe most common devices affected by code 10 are:

• Sound cards (integrated and external).
• USB ports.
• Wifi or Ethernet network cards.
• Bluetooth devices.
• Graphics drivers.
• Webcams, printers or scanners.

Error Code 10 in Device Manager: 9 Solutions to Fix It

The Code 10 error in Device Manager can appear without warning. The good news is that there are effective solutions to fix it, and you don't need to be an expert to apply them. We've listed them all below: It is recommended to follow them in order, from the simplest to the most advanced. Let's get started.

Restart the computer

Let's start with the most basic: restarting your computer. A simple restart can resolve temporary conflicts between hardware and software. Among other things, frees memory and resets loaded drivers. Do this, and if the error persists, continue.

Check physical connections

Second, if the device is external, such as a USB, printer, or hard drive, check that it's properly connected. A simple adjustment can correct physical connection errors and make it recognizable to the computer. Just in case, try another port or use another cable if possible.

Update the driver

If the Code 10 error in Device Manager persists, it's a good time to check the driver status. The first thing you'll try is update it: Go to Device Manager and right-click the device with the error. Select "Update Driver" and choose "Search automatically for updated driver software."

Reinstall the driver

If updating the driver doesn't solve anything, you'll need to reinstall it. You have two options: automatic and manual. Try the automatic option first: right-click on the device and select Uninstall device. After, Restart your computer so that Windows can attempt to reinstall the driver automatically..

Still having an error? Then reinstall the driver manually. This ensures you have the latest official version. To do this, the first thing to do is identify the exact model of your hardwareYou can go to the Device Properties, Details tab, and note down details such as the hardware ID and VEN_ and DEV_ values.

Once you've identified your device model, go to the manufacturer's official website. There, look for the Support or Downloads section, enter your model, and Download the latest version of the driver compatible with Windows. Then, from Device Manager, right-click the device and select Update Driver.

Now click on Search your computer for driver software - Allow to choose from a list of drivers available on the computer. If it doesn't appear, use Browse to navigate to the folder where you downloaded the driver .inf file.

Roll back the driver if you see the Code 10 error in Device Manager

On the other hand, what about if the error appeared after an updateIn that case, the best thing to do is restore the previous version of the driver. How? In the device properties, go to the Driver tab. Then, click Roll Back Driver and wait for the process to complete.

Use the Windows Troubleshooter

While the Windows Troubleshooter rarely does what it promises, you can't lose anything by trying. You might get lucky and the system will be able to fix it. detect and fix the error automatically.

1. Go to Settings – Update & security – Troubleshooter (or System – Troubleshooters in Windows 11).
2. Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.
3. Follow the instructions on the screen.

Check for Windows Updates

It's also important to make sure your system is up to date to avoid hardware conflicts. So it's a good idea to go to Settings – Update & Security – Windows Update and install any available updates. Still, is the Code 10 error persisting in Device Manager? There are only two options left.

Restore the system after a Code 10 error in Device Manager

If the error appeared after installing a program or update, System Restore may be your savior. This method allows you to return the system to a point before the error occurredHow to do it? See the article. How to restore my PC to a previous date Windows 10.

Check the hardware status

Finally, if nothing works and the Code 10 error in Device Manager is still there, it's time to consider a physical failure. Maybe the device is damagedTo be sure, connect it to another PC; if it also fails, you know what it means. If not, the problem may be with your USB ports. In these extreme cases, you may need to seek professional personalized help.