My USB-C ports are not recognizing a connected device

Steve Macari 0 Reputation points
2026-09-15T19:01:14.7266667+00:00

When I plug an external device into either of my USB ports, the device isn't recognized. Should I just reset the ports in device manager?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
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  1. AI answer

    2026-09-15T19:01:30.0133333+00:00

    Do not start by resetting ports in Device Manager.

    Try this order first:

    1. Disconnect the USB-C device and connect it directly to the PC.
      • If a hub or dock is in use, bypass it.
      • Some USB-C devices have limited functionality when connected through an external hub or dock.
    2. Reconnect the device.
      • Unplug it, then plug it back in.
    3. Use the cable that came with the device.
      • Not all USB-C cables support all features.
      • If the device is USB4, use the manufacturer-provided cable or a certified USB4 cable.
    4. Make sure the device is connected to the correct USB-C port.
      • Some USB-C ports do not support every feature such as DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, MHL, or USB4.
      • If the device needs one of those features, try the other USB-C port.
    5. If the device has its own power supply, connect it.
      • Some USB devices need more power or may not be recognized if underpowered.
    6. Check for a Windows USB-C notification.
      • In Windows 11, select Search, type usb, and open USB settings.
      • Turn Connection notifications on if needed.
      • Windows may show whether the issue is limited functionality, wrong port, power, or device recognition.
    7. If the device still is not recognized, check Device Manager for an error code.
      • Select Start, type device manager, and open Device Manager.
      • Find the problem device marked with a yellow exclamation point.
      • Right-click it, select Properties, and note the code under Device status.
      • Then follow the troubleshooting for that specific Device Manager error code.

    If this is a Surface device, also do this reset:

    • Unplug the USB-C device.
    • Select Start > Power > Shut down.
    • Wait 10 seconds.
    • Press and hold the Power button for about 20 seconds until the Windows logo appears, disappears, and appears again.
    • Reconnect the USB-C device.

    If this is a Surface, also check driver and firmware updates in the Surface app under Help & support > Check for updates.

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  2. Levi Cornwell 255 Reputation points
    2026-09-15T19:08:35.99+00:00

    You can try resetting the USB controllers in Device Manager, but I'd check a few simpler things first. Try the device in another USB port and, if possible, test the same device on another computer to rule out the device itself.

    In Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus controllers and look for any warning icons. You can also restart the PC and install any available Windows and manufacturer chipset/USB drivers. If both USB-C ports stopped recognizing devices at the same time, a driver, firmware, or hardware issue is more likely than both ports failing independently.

    If you want to reset the USB controllers, you can uninstall the USB controller entries from Device Manager and restart Windows. Windows should detect and reinstall them automatically. Avoid uninstalling anything if you're unsure which entry controls the ports.

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  3. EmilyS726 267.9K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-15T19:41:12.2466667+00:00

    First of all, you need to tell us what type of external devices are these?

    If they are external audio devices, then this is a known issue. It is documented here: https://learn.microsoft.com/ms-my/windows/release-health/status-windows-11-24h2#4984msgdesc As of today, the issue is not fully resolved yet and they are still working on it.

    If this is not specifically regarding audio devices, please tell me what type of external device you refered to here.

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