If your computer won’t detect a peripheral device, there are various troubleshooting steps you can take to try and identify the issue.
1. Check the Peripheral Device’s Power
Make sure the peripheral device is properly plugged into the power source, or that the batteries are fresh and installed correctly.
2. Plug the Peripheral Device into a Different Port
Try plugging the peripheral device into a different USB port or a different port altogether, such as HDMI. If the peripheral device is wireless, try bringing it closer to the computer or vice versa.
3. Reboot Both the Computer and Peripheral Device
Rebooting both the computer and the peripheral device can often resolve issues with the device not being recognized by the computer.
4. Update the Peripheral Device’s Firmware
If your peripheral device is older or has not been updated in some time, it’s possible that its firmware is out of date. Check for updates directly from the manufacturer’s website.
5. Install the Appropriate Drivers
If your peripheral device is not automatically recognized or installed by your computer’s operating system, you may need to download the appropriate drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website.
6. Check Software Settings
Sometimes an application or service like a firewall can be blocking the connection between your computer and the peripheral device. Double-check any software settings to make sure the peripheral device isn’t being blocked.
7. Reset Your Computer’s BIOS/UEFI
Your computer’s BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) may have corrupted settings or require updating. Resetting the BIOS/UEFI can often restore functionality. Note: Many modern computers don’t have a reset-able BIOS/UEFI, so you may need to check with the manufacturer or look up your model’s instructions.
8. Run Hardware Troubleshooting Tools
Most operating systems come with their own set of hardware troubleshooting tools. You can search for them on your computer and run them to try and identify where the problem lies. Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter called Device Manager, which can help you identify any drivers or devices that are not functioning correctly.
9. Contact the Peripheral Device Manufacturer
If you’ve exhausted all of the solutions above, you may need to contact the manufacturer of the peripheral device and ask for help.
10. Take It to a Professional
If all else fails, you may need to take your computer to a professional technician to diagnose and repair your problem.