If your hardware isn’t being recognized by Windows, there could be a number of causes. Before trying anything else, make sure the device is properly connected and powered-on. You may also want to check for any updated drivers for the device, as Windows may not have the correct or most recent version installed.
The primary cause of hardware not being recognized by Windows is usually due to driver issues. Here are some troubleshooting steps for solving driver-related issues:
1. Try uninstalling and reinstalling the driver:
Go to Device Manager and locate the device you’re having an issue with. Right-click on it and click on ‘Uninstall’. Restart your computer and then reinstall the driver, either by downloading it from the manufacturer’s website or using the disk that came with the device.
2. Update the driver:
If you already have the latest driver installed, but it’s still not being recognized, try updating the driver. Right-click on the device in Device Manager and select ‘Update Driver’. You can choose to search automatically for updated driver software, or manually browse for the driver software.
3. Use the Device Troubleshooter:
Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and repair issues with hardware and devices. To use this, simply go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
4. Use the System File Checker:
The System File Checker is a tool that scans for corrupted system files and repairs them. To use this, open Command Prompt as an Administrator and type ‘sfc /scannow’ (without quotes). This will scan all protected system files and replace any corrupted ones.
5. Restore the computer to a previous working state:
If none of the above solutions worked, try restoring your computer to an earlier working state. To do this, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Select ‘Restore my PC to an earlier point in time’.
If none of these solutions work, then hardware may need to be replaced. It’s always a good idea to check for compatibility with your machine before purchasing any hardware. If you’re not sure, consult with the store or manufacturer for more information.