How to Fix Windows 11 Error Code 38: Device Driver Not Loading Solutions

Windows 11 users may sometimes encounter the error code 38, which means a device driver is not loading properly. This can cause hardware devices like printers, USB drives, or graphic cards to stop working. Fixing this error is important to restore the full functionality of your device.

This article will guide you through simple and detailed solutions to resolve error code 38. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners troubleshoot with confidence.

By following these instructions, you can identify the root cause and fix the driver issue effectively. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting process.

Read on carefully and apply each step as needed to get your device back to normal.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Restart your PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can reload drivers correctly and fix temporary glitches.
Check device connection: Make sure the hardware is properly connected to your computer. Loose cables or ports can cause driver errors.
Ensure Windows is updated: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates. Updates often include driver fixes.
Backup important data: Before making system changes, it’s a good idea to back up your files to avoid accidental loss.

How to Fix Windows 11 Error Code 38: Device Driver Not Loading

Step 1: Use Device Manager to Reinstall the Driver

The Device Manager is a built-in Windows tool that allows you to manage hardware and drivers.

Press Windows + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
Locate the device showing error code 38. It will usually have a yellow warning icon next to it.
Right-click on the device and choose Uninstall device.
In the confirmation window, check Delete the driver software for this device if available, then click Uninstall.
After uninstalling, restart your computer. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver automatically.

Why this matters: Uninstalling and reinstalling the driver can fix corruption or conflicts that stop the driver from loading.

Step 2: Update the Driver Manually

If reinstalling does not work, try updating the driver to the latest version.

Open Device Manager again.
Right-click the problematic device and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for and install new drivers if available.
If Windows does not find a new driver, visit the manufacturer’s official website to download the latest driver manually.
Run the downloaded installer and follow on-screen instructions.
Restart your PC after installation.

Why this helps: An outdated or incompatible driver can cause errors. Updating ensures compatibility with Windows 11.

Step 3: Use Windows Troubleshooter for Hardware and Devices

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix hardware-related problems automatically.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Hardware and Devices and click Run.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the troubleshooting process.
Restart your PC if the troubleshooter applies fixes.

Why use this: This tool automates detecting driver issues and may resolve errors without manual intervention.

Step 4: Check for Windows System File Corruption

System file corruption can prevent drivers from loading properly. Running system scans can repair these files.

Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

This command will scan and repair corrupted system files. Wait until it completes; this may take some time.

After the scan finishes, restart your computer.

Why this is important: Fixing system file errors ensures your Windows installation is stable, which helps drivers load correctly.

Step 5: Roll Back to a Previous Driver Version

If the problem started after a recent driver update, rolling back to the previous version might fix it.

Open Device Manager.
Right-click the device and select Properties.
Go to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver.
Follow the instructions and restart your PC.

Why do this: Sometimes the latest driver is incompatible or buggy. Rolling back restores a stable version.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore to Undo Recent Changes

If none of the above steps work, you can use System Restore to revert your computer to a previous state before the error occurred.

Press Windows + S and type Create a restore point. Open it.
Click System Restore on the System Protection tab.
Choose a restore point dated before the error started.
Follow the prompts to restore your system. Your PC will restart automatically.

Why this helps: System Restore reverses recent system changes that might have caused the driver error.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does Error Code 38 mean in Windows 11?

Error Code 38 means that Windows cannot load the device driver because the driver is either corrupted or incompatible. This makes the device unusable until the issue is resolved.

Can I fix Error Code 38 without reinstalling Windows?

Yes, most cases of Error Code 38 can be fixed by reinstalling or updating the device driver, running system scans, or using troubleshooting tools without reinstalling Windows.

Is it safe to uninstall device drivers?

Uninstalling device drivers is generally safe if you are trying to fix driver issues, especially when followed by reinstalling the latest version. However, always create a backup or restore point before making changes.

Why does this error happen after Windows updates?

Sometimes, new Windows updates include driver updates that might not be fully compatible with your hardware, causing the error. Rolling back drivers or using System Restore can help in such situations.

Where do I find official drivers for my device?

Official drivers are usually available on the device manufacturer’s website. Always download drivers from official or trusted sources to avoid malware or compatibility problems.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still face error code 38, consider the following options:

Contact device manufacturer support: They may provide specific drivers or guidance tailored to your hardware.
Visit Microsoft Support: Use the official Microsoft Support website for advanced help and tools.
Consider professional help: If the device is critical, a certified technician can diagnose hardware or software problems.
Check for hardware issues: Sometimes the device itself may be faulty and need repair or replacement.

Conclusion

Error Code 38 in Windows 11 can be frustrating but is usually fixable with a few careful steps. Start by reinstalling or updating the device driver and use Windows troubleshooting tools. Running system scans and rolling back drivers can help resolve conflicts or corruption.

Always ensure your Windows is up to date and drivers come from official sources. If all else fails, System Restore or contacting support can provide further assistance.

By following this guide, you can restore your device’s functionality and avoid future driver-related problems.