USB Device Not Recognized? [10 Fixes for Windows 11 Users]

USB Device Not Recognized? [10 Fixes for Windows 11 Users]

by

If you’ve ever seen the frustrating message “USB Device Not Recognized” in Windows 11, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common issues faced by Windows users when plugging in USB drives, external hard disks, printers, or even keyboards. The good news is that fixing the USB device not recognized error in Windows 11 is easier than you think.

In this guide, we’ll cover 10 proven fixes to solve this problem step by step. By the end, your USB device should be working smoothly again.

Why Does “USB Device Not Recognized” Happen in Windows 11?

Before we jump into solutions, let’s understand why this error occurs. The USB Device Not Recognized issue in Windows 11 can be caused by:

  • Faulty or outdated USB drivers
  • Power supply issues
  • Corrupted system files
  • Conflicts with Windows updates
  • Faulty USB ports or devices

Now, let’s move on to the fixes.

Also Read: How to Clean Install Windows 11 Without Bloatware (2025 Method)

10 Fixes for USB Device Not Recognized in Windows 11

USB Device Not Recognized? [10 Fixes for Windows 11 Users]

1. Restart Your PC

It may sound simple, but restarting Windows 11 can often fix temporary glitches that cause the USB device not recognized error. Unplug the USB device, restart, and plug it back in.

2. Try a Different USB Port

Sometimes the port itself is the issue. Switch your device to another port. If you’re using a desktop PC, try the ports at the back, which usually supply more stable power.

3. Check the USB Device on Another Computer

To confirm if the problem is with your computer or the USB device, plug the device into another PC. If it works elsewhere, the issue is on your Windows 11 system.

4. Update USB Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a leading cause of the USB Device Not Recognized issue in Windows 11.

Steps to update drivers:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  3. Right-click on your USB device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

5. Uninstall and Reinstall USB Controllers

If updating doesn’t help, uninstalling and reinstalling the drivers can refresh them.

Steps:

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  3. Right-click each USB controller > Uninstall device.
  4. Restart your PC. Windows will automatically reinstall them.

6. Disable USB Selective Suspend Setting

Windows sometimes disables USB devices to save power. Disabling this can fix recognition issues.

USB Device Not Recognized? [10 Fixes for Windows 11 Users]

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type control panel, and hit Enter.
  2. Go to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
  3. Click Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings.
  4. Expand USB settings > USB selective suspend setting.
  5. Set it to Disabled.

7. Run the Windows Hardware Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter.

8. Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes Microsoft releases updates that fix USB-related bugs.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. Install pending updates and restart.

9. Use the Command Prompt to Fix System Files

Corrupt system files can trigger USB errors. Run the SFC and DISM tools.

Steps:

  1. Type cmd in Windows search, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Run this command:

sfc /scannow

3.Once complete, run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

10. Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup can sometimes cause USB device recognition problems.

Steps:

  1. Open Control Panel > Power Options.
  2. Click Choose what the power buttons do.
  3. Select Change settings that are currently unavailable.
  4. Uncheck Turn on fast startup (recommended).
  5. Save changes and restart.

Bonus Tip: Use a Powered USB Hub

If your device needs more power than your PC’s port supplies, using a powered USB hub can solve the issue.

Also Read:

Preventing USB Device Not Recognized Errors in Windows 11

  • Always eject USB devices safely.
  • Keep Windows and drivers updated.
  • Avoid using cheap or damaged USB hubs.
  • Regularly check for malware that can corrupt drivers.

Also Read: How Do I Update Drivers in Windows 11? A Step-by-Step Guide

FAQs – USB Device Not Recognized in Windows 11

USB Device Not Recognized? [10 Fixes for Windows 11 Users]

Why does my USB device keep disconnecting in Windows 11?

This usually happens due to power-saving settings, faulty cables, or outdated drivers. Disabling USB selective suspend often helps.

Can a corrupted USB drive cause this error?

Yes. If the USB drive is corrupted, Windows 11 may not recognize it. Try connecting it to another PC or using disk repair tools.

Do I need to reinstall Windows 11 to fix USB issues?

No, reinstalling Windows is rarely required. In most cases, updating drivers, disabling fast startup, or checking system files resolves the issue.

How do I know if my USB device is physically damaged?

If the device doesn’t work on multiple computers or shows physical signs of damage, it may be faulty.

Final Thoughts

The USB Device Not Recognized error in Windows 11 can be frustrating, but following these 10 proven fixes will almost always resolve the issue. Start with the simple solutions like restarting and trying another port, then move to advanced methods like updating drivers or running system scans.

By keeping your system updated and handling devices properly, you can prevent this error in the future.

Also Read:

How to Clone Your Windows 11 to SSD (2025 Guide)

What is the Optimized Way to Setting Up Windows for Gaming

How to Set Up Windows 11 Security Features Like Firewall & BitLocker

How Do I Set Up Multiple Monitors in Windows 11? [Step-by-Step Guide]

Leave a Comment