The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port is a commonly used method of connecting computers, tablets, and other devices to external hardware, such as a printer, scanner or external hard drive. Unfortunately, these ports don’t always work the way they should and can be the source of frustration when trying to access stored data or perform certain functions. If your USB port is not working in Windows, then the following steps may help you fix the issue.
Step 1: Make Sure the USB Port is Enabled
The first step is to make sure that the USB port is enabled on your computer. This can be done through the device manager. To open the Device Manager, right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager”. In the Device Manager, look for the “Universal Serial Bus controllers” section. Expand this section and check whether any of the devices are disabled. If so, right-click and select “Enable”.
Step 2: Update Your System Drivers
If the USB port still isn’t working after you’ve enabled it in the Device Manager, then it’s likely that there are some driver issues that need to be addressed. To ensure that you have the most up-to-date drivers for your system, you should download and install the latest version from your computer or device manufacturer’s website.
Step 3: Check Other USB Devices
If the USB port still isn’t working after updating the drivers, then it’s a good idea to try connecting a different USB device to the same port. If this device also fails to work, then it’s likely that there is something wrong with the port itself.
Step 4: Reset the USB Hub
If all of the above steps have failed and the USB port still isn’t working, then it could be worth trying to reset the USB hub. To do this, disconnect all connected USB devices from the computer and then press the “power” button on the PC for 5 seconds. This will reset the USB hub and should solve any issues you’re having.
Step 5: Disconnect and Reconnect the USB Cable
If none of the above steps have worked, then it’s possible that there is a problem with the physical connection between the USB cable and the port. To check this, unplug the USB cable from the port, wait 10 seconds and then plug it back in. This should reset the connection and get the USB port working again.
Step 6: Check the USB Port for Corrosion
If the USB port is still not working, then it’s possible that there is some corrosion on the connector. To check this, examine the port closely and look for any discoloration or signs that the port has been exposed to moisture. If you do find any corrosion, then clean the port with a small brush and then plug the USB cable back in.
Step 7: Replace the USB Port
If the USB port is still not working after all of the above steps, then it could be damaged and need replacing. To do this, you’ll need to purchase a replacement USB port and install it. You can find instructions for how to do this online, or if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, then you can take it to a repair shop for assistance.
By following these steps, you should be able fix a USB port not working in Windows. Remember to follow the instructions closely and make sure you have all the necessary tools before attempting any repairs.