Note the error first
Write down the exact Windows message and whether the device works on another port or computer.
Step 1 of 4
In this guide
Check the port, device, cable and power
Check the port, device, cable and power
Write down the exact Windows message. Unplug the device and look inside the USB port for bent contacts, broken plastic, dirt or scorch marks. Check the device's plug and cable for damage too. Do not put anything metal in the port or force a plug in. Stop using anything damaged, unusually hot or making odd noises.
Plug the device back in firmly. If it has a power switch, turn it off and on.
Try another USB port. On a desktop, try a port on the back of the computer. If it goes through a hub, dock or adapter, plug it straight into the computer.
Try another cable if you have one. Some cables only charge and do not carry data.
If the device has its own power adapter, make sure it is plugged in and switched on.
If the device works, you can stop here. If not, choose the type of device.
Open the drive from This PC
Open the drive from This PC
Open File Explorer and select This PC. Your USB drive should show under Devices and drives. Double-click it to open it.
If Windows asks you to format the drive, choose Cancel. Formatting erases the files.
If the drive does not show or will not open and the files are important, book IT support at the end of this guide. If you have no other copy, we can arrange a data recovery specialist.
If the drive opens, you can stop here.
Compare the device on another computer
Compare the device on another computer
Plug the device into another computer. If it works there, the problem is this computer: continue to Device Manager. If it fails on both, the device, cable or its power supply is likely faulty; if it is under warranty, contact its manufacturer.
If you have another USB device that works, try it in the same port on this computer.
If the device works, you can stop here.
Check Device Manager
Check Device Manager
Search Start for Device Manager. Look for the device under its category, Universal Serial Bus controllers or Other devices, and check for a yellow warning symbol or an unknown device. Choose Action > Scan for hardware changes and check again.
Go to the device manufacturer's official website, find the driver for your model and install it. Our software and drivers guide shows how.
Clear old hidden drivers
Windows keeps a driver for every USB device ever plugged in. Over time these old entries can clash and stop a device working in that port.
Unplug the device. In Device Manager, select View > Show hidden devices. Faded entries are devices that are not plugged in. Under Disk drives, Universal Serial Bus controllers and the device's own category, right-click each faded entry for that device or for old USB devices you no longer use, and choose Uninstall device. Then plug the device back in.
If it still shows an error, right-click it, choose Uninstall device and confirm, then unplug it and plug it back in. Do not uninstall your only working keyboard or mouse.
If the device works, you can stop here.
Book IT supportFrequently asked questions
Can a USB lead power a device without carrying data?
Yes, some leads are intended for charging. Compare a compatible data-capable lead that suits the accessory rather than assuming power lights confirm a data connection.
Should I format a drive Windows cannot open?
No, not if it holds important files. Formatting erases them. Choose Cancel if Windows asks, and book IT support.
What does working directly without a hub show?
It narrows attention towards the hub, dock, adapter or its supply. It does not by itself identify a specific failed component.
Can I uninstall the only keyboard or mouse that works?
No. Keep another keyboard, mouse or touch screen working before you uninstall an input device.
Will uninstalling a device in Device Manager delete my files?
No. It only removes the driver. Windows reinstalls it when you plug the device back in, and the files on the drive are not touched.
