Reinstalling USB drivers on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can solve many issues related to USB devices. By following a few easy steps, you can quickly get your USB devices back up and running. Here’s how you can do it:
Step by Step Tutorial: Reinstall USB Drivers Windows 10
You’re about to learn how to reinstall USB drivers on your Windows 10 computer. This process is vital for fixing issues with USB devices not being recognized or malfunctioning.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, press ‘Windows key + X’ and select ‘Device Manager’ from the menu that appears.
Opening Device Manager is crucial because it allows you to see all the hardware installed on your system, including USB controllers.
Step 2: Locate Universal Serial Bus Controllers
In the Device Manager window, scroll down and find ‘Universal Serial Bus controllers.’ Click the arrow next to it to expand the list.
This section lists all your USB controllers and devices. You’ll need to identify which ones you want to reinstall.
Step 3: Uninstall USB Drivers
Right-click on each USB driver you need to reinstall and select ‘Uninstall device.’ Confirm any prompts that appear.
Uninstalling the drivers removes them from your system, making it possible to install fresh versions, which can resolve many issues.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
After uninstalling, restart your computer to allow Windows to reinstall the USB drivers automatically.
A restart is essential because it refreshes your system and prompts Windows to detect and reinstall the necessary drivers.
Step 5: Check for Updates
After rebooting, go back to Device Manager, right-click on ‘Universal Serial Bus controllers,’ and select ‘Scan for hardware changes.’
This step ensures that any remaining or newly connected USB devices are properly recognized and their drivers are updated.
Once these steps are completed, your USB devices should be working correctly. If problems persist, you might need additional troubleshooting.
Tips for Reinstalling USB Drivers Windows 10
- Always backup important data before making changes to your system.
- Ensure your Windows 10 is updated to the latest version.
- Use the manufacturer’s website to download specific USB drivers if automatic updates fail.
- Disable power-saving options for USB devices to avoid conflicts.
- If issues persist, consider using a USB hub to test the connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my USB devices not recognized by Windows 10?
This can happen due to outdated or corrupted drivers. Reinstalling the drivers usually fixes the issue.
Will reinstalling USB drivers delete my data?
No, reinstalling drivers does not affect your data. It only refreshes the system’s ability to communicate with USB devices.
How do I know if my USB drivers are out of date?
You can check this in Device Manager. If there’s a yellow exclamation mark next to a device, the driver is likely outdated or corrupted.
Can I reinstall USB drivers without restarting my computer?
Restarting is recommended because it ensures all system changes are applied correctly.
What if Windows doesn’t automatically reinstall the drivers?
You can manually download and install drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
Summary
- Open Device Manager
- Locate Universal Serial Bus Controllers
- Uninstall USB Drivers
- Restart Your Computer
- Check for Updates
Conclusion
Reinstalling USB drivers on Windows 10 is a relatively simple process that can solve a variety of USB-related issues. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your system can interact with your USB devices correctly. Whether it’s a mouse, keyboard, or external hard drive, the right drivers are crucial for smooth operation.
If you encounter further issues, don’t hesitate to consult additional resources or contact technical support. Taking proactive steps like keeping your system updated and regularly checking for driver updates can keep your devices functioning flawlessly. Now, go ahead and give it a try; your USB woes could be just a few clicks away from being fixed!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.