Why is Device Manager Showing Unknown USB Device Code 43 Error When All Ports are Working Fine?

Understanding the Code 43 Error in Device Manager

The Code 43 error is one of the common error messages that users encounter in the Windows Task Manager's Device Manager. It indicates that a device driver for a USB device is either missing or corrupted. Even if your USB ports are working fine, the device manager might still show this error, which can be frustrating.

Causes of the Code 43 Error

There can be several reasons why the Code 43 error appears in your Device Manager:

Corrupt or missing device driver files Malware or viruses that have tampered with system files Registry errors that require cleaning System crashes or power outages

Solutions to Fix the Code 43 Error in Device Manager

If the device manager still displays the Code 43 error, here are a few steps you can take to resolve the issue:

1. Use CCleaner Software

CCleaner is a trusted tool that can help you clean up the registry and system files. This process can fix bugs and errors that may be preventing the USB device driver from functioning properly.

Steps to Use CCleaner:

Download and install CCleaner from the official website. Run the program and select 'Scan' to detect issues. Click 'Fix selected Issues' to apply the necessary changes. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

2. Check and Fix the Registry

The registry can accumulate errors over time, which can lead to the Code 43 error. Here’s how you can clean it:

Press Windows R to open the Run dialog box. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor. Browse to the affected USB device in the registry tree (usually under HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetEnumUSB). Right-click on the device and select 'Delete.' Confirm the deletion if prompted. Restart your computer.

3. Update or Roll Back Device Drivers

Out-of-date or incompatible drivers can cause the Code 43 error. Try these steps to update or roll back your drivers:

In Device Manager, expand the 'Universal Serial Bus Controllers' category. Right-click on the affected USB device, and select 'Update driver.' Your PC will search for the latest drivers. If no updates are found, try 'Roll Back Driver.' Restart your computer to apply any changes.

4. Run SFC and DISM Scans

System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) utility can help verify and repair corrupted system files.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator. Run the following command: sfc /scannow. This will check for and repair corrupted system files automatically. For DISM, run the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This command will repair the Windows system image. Restart your computer.

5. Use Malware Bytes or a Similar Antivirus Tool

Malware or viruses can interfere with your system’s ability to recognize USB devices, leading to a Code 43 error. To address this:

Download and install a reputable antivirus program like MalwareBytes. Run a full system scan. Follow the instructions to remove any detected threats. Restart your computer.

Conclusion: Why is Device Manager Showing Code 43?

Even if your USB ports are functioning correctly, the Code 43 error can still be tricky to resolve. By following these steps, you can diagnose and fix the issue effectively. Remember that consistency and patience are key when troubleshooting computer issues. Use the resources available to you, such as online forums, tech support, and documentation, to guide you through the process.