How to Fix Windows 10 Driver Can’t Release Failure Error: Step-by-Step Solutions

Experiencing the “Driver Can’t Release Failure” error on Windows 10 can be frustrating. This problem usually occurs when your device drivers fail to communicate properly with the system. Resolving it helps restore device functionality and stability.

In this article, you will find simple and clear steps to fix this error. We’ll start with basic checks and move towards more advanced solutions. Each step is explained in detail to ensure even beginners can follow along easily.

Taking these steps seriously can save you time and prevent further system issues. Let’s get started and fix your Windows 10 driver problem efficiently.

By the end, you’ll be equipped with useful tips and alternatives to handle similar issues in the future.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into fixes, it’s important to do a few quick checks to avoid unnecessary troubleshooting:

Restart Your Computer: Sometimes a simple reboot clears temporary glitches causing the error.
Check Device Connections: Make sure hardware devices (like USB devices or printers) are properly connected.
Update Windows: Ensure your system has the latest Windows updates installed. Updates often include driver fixes.
Backup Important Data: Although these steps are safe, it’s always wise to back up your important files before making changes.

Step 1: Run the Built-in Windows Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a handy troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix driver problems.

Click on the Start menu and select Settings (the gear icon).
Go to Update & Security and then choose Troubleshoot from the left menu.
Click on Additional troubleshooters.
Find and select the troubleshooter for the device type causing issues (for example, Printer or Hardware and Devices), then click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any suggested fixes.

This tool helps identify common issues without needing manual intervention. It is often the quickest way to resolve driver errors.

Step 2: Update the Problematic Device Driver

Outdated or corrupted drivers are a frequent cause of the “Driver Can’t Release Failure” error. Updating the driver can restore proper communication.

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Locate the device with the error (usually marked with a yellow exclamation mark).
Right-click the device and click Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will look for the latest driver online.
If Windows doesn’t find an update, you can visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest driver manually.

Updating drivers ensures you have the latest fixes and compatibility improvements directly from the manufacturer.

Step 3: Uninstall and Reinstall the Device Driver

If updating doesn’t work, uninstalling and reinstalling the driver can fix corrupted installations.

Open Device Manager as explained earlier.
Right-click the problematic device and select Uninstall device.
Check the box that says Delete the driver software for this device if available.
Click Uninstall to confirm.
Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically during reboot.
If the driver doesn’t reinstall, use the manufacturer’s website to download and install it manually.

This method is helpful because it removes any corrupted files and sets up the device fresh.

Step 4: Use System File Checker (SFC) to Repair Corrupted System Files

Sometimes, corrupted system files can interfere with driver operations. Running the System File Checker scans and repairs these files.

Press Windows + X and choose Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
Type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

The scan will take some time. Do not close the window until the process is complete.

After the scan finishes, restart your PC and check if the error persists. This step can fix hidden issues affecting device drivers.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts

Sometimes third-party software conflicts cause driver errors. A clean boot starts Windows with only essential services, helping identify problematic programs.

Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services.
Click Disable all.
Next, go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
Disable all startup items listed here by selecting each and clicking Disable.
Close Task Manager and click OK on the System Configuration window.
Restart your computer.

If the driver error disappears, one of the disabled services or startup programs is causing the issue. You can enable them one by one to find the culprit.

Alternative Method: Roll Back the Driver

If the problem started after a recent driver update, rolling back to the previous version may help.

Open Device Manager.
Right-click the problematic device and select Properties.
Go to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver.
Follow the prompts to complete the rollback.

This option is useful when new drivers introduce bugs or incompatibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Driver Can’t Release Failure” error?

This error is usually caused by outdated, corrupted, or incompatible device drivers. It can also arise from conflicts with other software or corrupted system files.

Is it safe to uninstall device drivers?

Yes, uninstalling device drivers is safe as long as you reinstall them properly. Always back up data before making changes and download drivers from trusted sources.

Can Windows update fix driver problems automatically?

Windows Update often includes driver updates and patches that can fix many common issues. However, specialized or older hardware may require manual driver installation.

What if the device still doesn’t work after following these steps?

If the device remains non-functional, it could be a hardware issue. Contact the manufacturer or a professional technician for further assistance.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the error persists, here are your final options:

Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
Check Device Manufacturer Support: Many hardware vendors offer dedicated troubleshooting tools and driver downloads.
Consider System Restore: Use Windows System Restore to revert your PC to a previous working state. This may undo recent changes causing the problem.
Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, a clean Windows installation can resolve deep system or driver issues, but ensure you back up all data first.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Driver Can’t Release Failure” error in Windows 10 involves a step-by-step approach, starting from simple restarts and troubleshooting to more advanced driver updates and system scans. Each step helps identify and eliminate possible causes, restoring your device’s functionality.

Regularly updating drivers and Windows itself can prevent similar issues in the future. When faced with persistent problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to official support channels.

By following this guide, you should be able to resolve the error efficiently and keep your system running smoothly.