USB ports are a great way to connect many devices to your computer. From keyboards and mouses to external hard drives and printers, USB ports can be used to connect them all. You may occasionally encounter issues with these ports. For example, devices might not be recognized or function improperly. Resetting your USB port can solve this problem. This article will walk you step-by-step through the process of resetting USB ports on Windows 7 systems.
What causes USB ports to stop working?
USB ports may stop working for a variety of reasons. It can be a hardware problem, like a loose connector or physical damage. Sometimes, the problem is a software issue, like outdated drivers or incorrect setting.
Hardware problems are usually fixed by physically repairing them. Resetting USB ports is a good way to resolve software problems. Here’s how to reset your USB ports on Windows 7 if you’ve eliminated hardware problems.
Unplug all USB devices
Unplug the Reset before Unplugging
It’s essential to disconnect all USB devices from your computer before resetting the USB ports. Included are peripherals such as printers, mice, keyboards and external hard drives. If you fail to follow this step, your device may be damaged.
Resetting Your USB Ports
Use Device Manager
Device Manager is the main tool that you will use to reset USB ports. The Device Manager is a Windows tool that allows you to manage hardware connected to your computer. How to use it:
- Open the Control Panel by clicking on the Start Menu.
- Select “System and security” in the Control Panel. Then click “System.”
- Click on the “Device Manager” button in the System window.
USB Controllers: How to Identify Them
You’ll find a list of hardware connected to your computer in Device Manager. Click the arrow to expand the category “Universal Serial Bus controllers”.
Disable and enable USB controllers
For each item under “Universal Serial Bus controllers”, please:
- Click on the item with your right-click.
- Click “Disable.”
- Wait a few moments.
- Click the same item again by right-clicking.
- Click “Enable.”
This resets all USB ports connected to your computer.
Restart your computer
Why Restart Your Computer?
Restarting your computer is a good idea after you have disabled and enabled all items under “Universal Serial Bus Controllers.” It allows your operating to re-initialize USB ports and devices connected.
Click the Start button and select the arrow beside “Shutdown” before selecting “Restart”.
Reconnect your USB Devices
Test your USB Ports
Connect your USB devices, one at a time, after your computer has restarted. Check that each device works correctly. You may need to update USB drivers if your devices still aren’t recognized or working properly. Or, consult a professional if you suspect a hardware issue.
conclusion
Windows 7’s USB port reset is an easy process that often fixes issues with USB devices that are not recognized or have malfunctioned. You can reset your USB ports by following the above steps. If the problem persists, it could be because of outdated drivers or hardware problems, and you may need to do further investigation.
