Fix: Hardware devices not working or not detecting in Windows 8, Windows 7, Vista & XP

After reading this you will be able solve a problem where Windows might not detect one or multiple of your hardware devices. These devices might be running properly on other computers, but does not work or get detect on a specific Windows computer. This type of problem might occur for a number of reasons. Some of the causes of this type of problem are mentioned below:

  • System File corruption
  • Out of date or corrupted drivers
  • Malware/ Spyware / Virus infections
  • Hardware issues

The very first step ( For Windows 7 & earlier editions )

Microsoft FixIt

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If Microsoft Fixit does not solve your issue follow the steps below :-

  • uninstall any of the previous drivers you have for this device. To do this :-
  • Go to Device Manager ( in Control Panel )
  • Right Click the hardware if listed there & click on uninstall
  • OR
  • Go to Add/Remove Programs ( in Windows XP) Programs & Features ( Windows Vista & later)
  • Remove any software & drivers linked to your hardware device
  • Restart your computer
  • Plug in your hardware, if not already plugged in.
  • If it’s a USB device or PCI device, try changing the slot
  • Download & Install latest drivers from the hardware manufacturer’s website.
  • Also make sure, that your motherboard ( chipset & other ) essential drivers are up to date.
  • You can also try running SFC /SCANNOW ( type the command in run ) ( This will check your system files & repair them if necessary.)
  • If your hardware was working properly & now suddenly it’s malfunctioning, you can always use system restore to roll back your settings to a time where everything was working perfectly. ( Guide to system restore )
  • Try plugging your device into another computer system to make sure that your hardware device is not at fault.
  • Scan your computer system with a good Anti virus/ Anti malware software.