Why Won’t My Computer Recognize My USB Device?
Learn what to check when a USB flash drive, printer, keyboard, mouse, or other USB device is not recognized by your computer.
What’s happening?
Your computer may not recognize a USB flash drive, external drive, printer, phone, or another USB device.
The problem may be with the USB port, cable, device, or computer.
Common causes
- Loose connection
- Damaged USB cable
- Problem with the USB port
- Device needs its own power
- Temporary computer problem
- Device or driver problem
Things you can safely try
- Disconnect and reconnect the USB device.
- Try another USB port.
- Try another cable if the device uses one.
- Check whether the device needs its own power.
- Restart the computer.
- If the device is a storage drive, do not format it just because the computer displays a formatting message.
Make sure the connection is secure.
A different port may work if the original port has a problem.
A damaged cable can prevent the computer from recognizing the device.
Some external devices require a separate power connection.
Then reconnect the device after the computer starts.
Formatting can erase the information on the drive.
Stop here
If the device contains important files and the computer asks you to format it, stop before doing anything else.
If the USB port or device appears physically damaged, get help.
Do not format a USB drive just because Windows says it needs to be formatted if the drive contains important files. Formatting can make recovery harder.
Still having trouble?
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
LoTyde Tech Assistance provides friendly, patient technology help for residents throughout Indiana County and surrounding communities.
If you’ve tried the basic troubleshooting steps and still need help, we’re here to help.
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