How to Resolve the ‘A Driver Cannot Load on This Device’ Error (ENE.SYS) on Windows 11/10
The ‘A Driver Cannot Load on This Device’ error, particularly associated with the ENE.SYS driver, is a common issue faced by users of Windows 11 and Windows 10. This error can arise due to outdated or corrupted drivers, or conflicts with hardware components. This guide will walk you through several effective methods to troubleshoot and fix this error, ensuring your system runs smoothly again. By following these steps, you will learn how to update or reinstall drivers, check for Windows updates, and resolve device conflicts.
Before you begin, ensure you have administrative privileges on your computer, and it’s advisable to back up your data. You will also need to access the Device Manager and Windows Settings to perform some of these actions.
Step 1: Disconnect Unnecessary Hardware
Start by removing any unnecessary external devices connected to your computer. This includes USB drives, card readers, or any additional hardware that may interfere with driver operations. By eliminating these devices, you can rule out hardware conflicts that might be causing the error.
Step 2: Update Your Drivers
To update the drivers, press the Windows key + X to open the Power User menu, then select Device Manager. Look for the Universal Serial Bus controllers section, which typically contains the drivers related to USB devices and card readers. Right-click on each driver and select Update Driver. You will have two options: Search automatically for updated driver software and Browse my computer for driver software. Start with the automatic search and follow the prompts. After updating, restart your computer.
Step 3: Check for Windows Updates
Keeping your Windows operating system updated is crucial for resolving driver issues. Press Windows + I to open Settings. Navigate to Windows Update and click on Check for Updates. If updates are available, download and install them. Additionally, go to Advanced Options and check for Optional Updates, particularly under Driver Updates. Select any pending driver updates to install them.
Step 4: Run System File Checker
If the issue persists, you can use the System File Checker to repair corrupted system files. Open the Start menu, type Command Prompt, right-click on it, and select Run as administrator. In the command window, type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
. This process may take some time to complete. Once done, restart your PC and check if the error still occurs.
Step 5: Perform a Virus Scan
Malware can also cause driver issues. To ensure your PC is free of viruses, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security. From there, navigate to Virus & Threat Protection and click on Manage settings. You can choose to perform a quick, full, or custom scan. Select the option that best fits your needs, and allow Windows Security to scan your system for threats. Remove any identified threats and see if this resolves your driver issue.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
While performing these steps, ensure your device is plugged into a power source to avoid interruptions. If you encounter any errors during driver updates, note the error codes as they can provide additional context for troubleshooting. It’s also advisable to create a system restore point before making major changes to your system, allowing you to revert back if needed.
Conclusion
Resolving the ‘A Driver Cannot Load on This Device’ error can be straightforward with the right steps. By following this guide, you should be able to update your drivers, check for necessary updates, and ensure your system is free from malware, ultimately fixing the problem. If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out for professional support or consulting the Microsoft support website for additional resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ENE.SYS driver do?
The ENE.SYS driver is associated with the USB controller and card reader functionality on your device. It enables communication between your operating system and the hardware components linked to USB ports.
How can I manually download drivers?
You can manually download drivers from the manufacturer’s website. Search for your device model and locate the appropriate drivers under the support or downloads section.
What if I still see the error after trying all these steps?
If the error persists, it may indicate a deeper hardware issue or a need for a complete system reinstall. Consider consulting a professional technician for further diagnosis.