Windows 11 manages USB power automatically, and most users should leave the defaults in place. If a USB device repeatedly disconnects or fails to wake, you can inspect supported power-management controls before resorting to Registry edits or broad power-saving disablement.
How to Change USB Power Management in Windows 11
Step 1: Open Device Manager
Right-click Start and choose Device Manager.
Step 2: Expand the USB controller section
Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers. The names shown vary by computer.
Step 3: Open the relevant device properties
For a USB hub or controller that exposes a Power Management tab, open its properties. Not every entry provides this option.
Step 4: Review the power-saving option
If troubleshooting a verified disconnect problem, you can test the option that allows Windows to turn off that device to save power. Change one relevant device at a time so you can tell whether it helps.
Step 5: Restart and test
Restart Windows if appropriate and test the USB device under the conditions that previously caused the failure.
What About USB Selective Suspend?
Some power configurations expose USB selective-suspend behavior through advanced power settings, while availability varies with hardware and modern Windows power models. Do not assume every Windows 11 PC will display the same legacy power-plan controls.
Use Power Changes as Troubleshooting, Not a Universal Fix
Disabling power management can increase energy use and may not fix a bad cable, failing peripheral, underpowered hub, firmware issue, or damaged USB port. Test those possibilities as well.
Avoid Registry “USB Fixes”
Do not import unknown Registry files or disable every USB controller to solve a single peripheral problem. Use official firmware and drivers from Windows Update or the hardware manufacturer when updates are genuinely needed.
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.