How to Fix a Computer That Won't Recognize USB Devices?

If you are reading this, then you are probably one of the thousands of people wondering why their computer won't recognize USB devices. You have plugged it in, but no notification pops up asking you what you want to do with the device. It's frustrating, especially when you need to transfer files or access important information.

There are many reasons why your computer might not recognize a USB device. It could be anything from outdated drivers to a malfunctioning USB port. Fortunately, there are a few simple fixes that you can try to get your USB devices to be recognized by your computer once again.

At JTG Systems, we specialize in computer repair and maintenance. If you are experiencing issues with your computer recognizing USB devices, we can help! Located at 577 Niagara Street in Welland, Ontario, you can call (905) 892-4555 to schedule an appointment today.

Check the USB Device

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, make sure the USB device itself is functioning correctly. Try plugging the device into another computer or device to see if it is recognized. If it is, then the problem lies with your computer and not the USB device.

Check Device Manager

The first step in troubleshooting your computer's failure to recognize USB devices is to check Device Manager. To do this, right-click on the Windows icon and select Device Manager from the menu.

In the Device Manager window, locate Universal Serial Bus controllers. Expand your Universal Serial Bus controllers and look for any exclamation marks. If you see one, it means that the device has a problem. Right-click on the problematic device, and select Properties to see what the problem is and, if possible, update the driver.

Update USB Drivers

An outdated driver could be the reason your computer is not recognizing your USB device. To update your USB drivers, go to Device Manager, look for Universal Serial Bus controllers, and select Update Driver Software.

You will be presented with two options: "Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software" and "Browse My Computer for Driver Software." If you have a computer with a stable internet connection, "Search Automatically for Updated Driver Software" is the best option.

You can also download the latest USB drivers from your computer manufacturer's website. However, this is a more time-consuming process, and it's important to ensure you are downloading the correct driver for your computer's make and model.

Uninstall and Reinstall USB Drivers

Sometimes, drivers can become corrupt or incorrectly installed, causing your computer to not recognize USB devices. To resolve this, try uninstalling and reinstalling the drivers.

To uninstall the drivers, go back to Device Manager, locate Universal Serial Bus controllers, and right-click on the device that is not functioning correctly. Select Uninstall Device. After uninstalling the driver, restart your computer. The operating system should automatically reinstall the driver after startup.

Disable Fast Startup

Fast Startup is designed to help your computer boot up quickly. However, it could be the reason your computer is not recognizing your USB devices. To disable Fast Startup, go to Power Options in the Control Panel. Click "Choose what the power buttons do," then "Change settings that are currently available."

Scroll down to "Shutdown Settings" and disable "Turn on fast startup (recommended)." Finally, save all settings and restart your computer.

Check USB Ports

Another common reason your computer is not recognizing USB devices is because of faulty USB ports. To check whether your USB ports are causing issues, try plugging the USB device into a different port. If it works, then the port was the problem, and you may need to speak to a computer expert, like one of our technicians at JTG Systems, about repairing or replacing the port.

Check BIOS

If all the above-mentioned methods fail to resolve the problem, then you should check the BIOS settings. When a USB device is plugged in, the BIOS on your computer looks for available resources.

Sometimes, the BIOS may not recognize USB devices properly. You can resolve this by accessing your computer's BIOS settings, which are usually accessed by pressing F2 or DEL while your computer is booting up.

In the BIOS settings, check if the USB is enabled or disabled. If it is disabled, enable it and save all the settings by pressing F10. This will cause your computer to reboot, and the problem should be resolved.

Conclusion

There are many reasons why your computer may not be recognizing USB devices. Fortunately, there are several easy solutions to this problem. You can troubleshoot the device, update or uninstall/reinstall drivers, check ports, disable Fast Startup, and check BIOS settings.

If none of the above troubleshooting solutions work, it may be time to call in a professional like the team at JTG Systems. We have experienced technicians who specialize in computer repairs and can help you diagnose and fix any computer issue - including USB devices that your computer doesn't recognize.

FAQs

1. Can virus or malware affect USB devices from being recognized?

Yes, virus or malware can interfere with the functionality of USB devices, sometimes causing them not to be recognized by your computer. This mostly happens when you plug in an infected USB device, which will transmit the virus into your computer, affecting other USB devices.

2. Why does my computer randomly stop recognizing USB devices?

USB devices stopping to be recognized can be caused by many issues such as updated drivers, outdated Windows versions, and system issues. Most commonly, USB devices stop being recognized due to damaged USB ports.

3. What is the average cost of repairing USB ports?

The cost of repairing a USB port varies depending on the extent of damage, the type of computer, and labor costs. At JTG Systems, we offer affordable rates, and our technicians can assess the extent of damage and give you a quote for the repair.