Alex Ruben
How to Resolve “The Device Has Either Stopped Responding or Has Been Disconnected” Error on Windows
If you’ve encountered the frustrating error message stating that “The Device Has Either Stopped Responding or Has Been Disconnected,” this guide is here to help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue. This error typically arises when your computer fails to recognize a connected device, such as a USB drive, external hard drive, or printer. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you’ll be able to reconnect your devices and ensure they function properly on your Windows PC, whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, make sure you have administrative access to your computer, as some actions may require elevated permissions. Additionally, check that your devices are properly connected and powered on, and have the necessary drivers installed. This guide will walk you through various methods to fix the issue, providing you with practical solutions to get your devices back up and running.
Step 1: Disconnect and Reconnect Your Device
The first and simplest troubleshooting step is to physically disconnect your device and reconnect it. This action can often reset the connection and resolve minor issues:
- Unplug the device from your computer.
- Wait for a few seconds.
- Reconnect the device to the same USB port.
If the device is still unresponsive, try using a different USB port to rule out potential port issues.
Step 2: Try a Different USB Port
If reconnecting the device does not resolve the issue, switch to a different USB port. Sometimes, specific ports may malfunction:
- Unplug the device from its current port.
- Plug it into a different USB port on your computer.
If the device works in the new port, the initial port may be faulty.
Step 3: Update Device Drivers
Keeping your device drivers up to date is crucial for optimal performance. Here’s how to update your device drivers:
- Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type Device Manager. Click on it.
- In the Device Manager window, expand the section labeled Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click on the specific USB device that is having issues and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
This process searches for and installs the latest drivers for your device, ensuring compatibility and functionality.
Step 4: Run the Hardware Troubleshooter
If updating drivers does not resolve the issue, you can use the built-in hardware troubleshooter:
- Press Windows + S and type CMD. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type
msdt.exe -id device diagnosticand press Enter.
This command opens the Hardware Troubleshooter, which will guide you through diagnostic processes to identify and potentially fix device issues. Follow the prompts, and if your device appears in the list, select it to apply any suggested fixes.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
After completing the troubleshooting steps, restart your computer. This helps to refresh the system and apply any changes made during the troubleshooting process. Once your computer restarts, check if the device is now recognized and functioning properly.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth troubleshooting process:
- Make sure that all cables and connections are secure and undamaged.
- Check if the device works on another computer to rule out hardware issues with the device itself.
- If you’re using a USB hub, try connecting the device directly to the computer instead.
- Look for any software conflicts that may be preventing the device from functioning correctly.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the “The Device Has Either Stopped Responding or Has Been Disconnected” error effectively. Keeping your drivers updated and regularly checking device connections can help prevent such issues in the future. If you continue to experience problems, consider reaching out to the device manufacturer for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my device is not recognized at all?
If your device is not recognized at all, ensure that it is powered on and functioning. Test it on another computer to confirm it’s not a hardware issue. If it works elsewhere, revisit the troubleshooting steps in this guide.
Can I reinstall device drivers?
Yes, you can reinstall drivers by going to Device Manager, right-clicking on the device, and selecting Uninstall device. After uninstalling, restart your computer, and Windows should reinstall the driver automatically.
Will a system update help?
Yes, sometimes a Windows update can resolve underlying issues that affect device recognition. Make sure your system is up to date by checking Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.