1. Disable and Re-Enable the Device
Disabling and then re-enabling a device basically instructs the operating system to stop and then reinitiate communication with the device’s hardware, a process that can sometimes clear up any conflict or error states that the device’s software is experiencing. By performing this reset, it prompts Windows to reload the device drivers, which can resolve minor inconsistencies and restore normal function.
2. Power Cycle Your Machine
Power cycling, which includes completely shutting down and restarting the computer, can reset its status. When hardware such as a network adapter stop functioning unexpectedly, a power cycle can eliminate potential software glitches or malfunctions that might be rendering the device unresponsive. Basically, it refreshes the system’s memory and can potentially resolve issues relating to drivers or hardware that interfere with normal functioning.
2.1 Desktop
2.2 Laptop
3. Reinstall the Driver
Problems related to drivers often come from corruption or incompatibility issues. By deleting the troublesome driver and restarting the computer, Windows is prompted to automatically reinstall a clean version of the driver, potentially resolving these complications. Refreshing the driver software in this manner can fix any errors and restore the device to functional status.
4. Download the Driver from the Manufacturer
When drivers within your system become outdated or corrupt, they may not communicate effectively with your hardware. Manufacturers continually update these drivers to fix known bugs, improve performance, and ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems. By installing the most recent driver version made specifically for your device model, you’re providing the most up-to-date translation between your hardware’s language and your computer’s operating system, thereby resolving potential conflict or incompatibility issues that could cause the error. To locate the correct drivers, identify your system’s model number:
5. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
This Windows built-in troubleshooter is designed to automatically scan for any hardware-related issues your system might be facing, which includes inconsistencies with device operation and driver conflicts. By finding such problems and implementing the recommended fixes, it can effectively fix the error, restoring your hardware devices back to their proper functioning state.
6. Use a System Restore
By reverting your system to a previous state where everything functioned without problems, you effectively undo recent changes that might have disrupted your device’s operation. This is particularly useful if recent updates or installations have accidentally caused the error. It’s a safe and straightforward way to get back to a point where your device drivers were working properly.
