USB devices not being recognized can be frustrating. Here's how to diagnose and fix common USB detection issues on Windows.

Symptoms

  • USB drives, keyboards, or webcams are not recognized

  • No sound when plugging in devices

  • Device appears briefly then disappears

Step-by-Step Resolution

1. Test the Device on Another Port or PC

  1. Unplug the USB device

  2. Try plugging it into a different USB port (preferably directly on the PC, not a hub)

  3. If available, test the device on another computer

  4. This confirms whether the issue is with the device or your PC

2. Check Device Manager

  1. Right-click Start > Device Manager

  2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers

  3. Look for any items with a yellow warning icon

  4. Also check for "Unknown Device" entries

3. Uninstall and Rescan USB Controllers

  1. In Device Manager, right-click any problematic USB Root Hub or Controller

  2. Choose Uninstall device

  3. Restart your PC

  4. Windows will reinstall the controllers automatically

4. Check Power Management Settings

  1. In Device Manager, right-click each USB Root Hub

  2. Select Properties > Power Management

  3. Untick "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power"

  4. Click OK and repeat for all USB Root Hubs

5. Update USB Drivers

  1. In Device Manager, right-click the USB controller

  2. Select Update driver > Search automatically

  3. Restart after any updates are applied

USB ports still unreliable? The problem may be with the motherboard or a firmware/driver conflict. For deeper diagnostics and data-safe testing, our team can help.

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