USB ports are essential for connecting many devices to your Windows 11 PC. Sometimes, you might encounter an error called “USB port reset failed,” which can disrupt your workflow.
This issue can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with some simple troubleshooting steps. Most fixes do not require technical expertise.
In this article, we will guide you through easy, step-by-step methods to resolve the USB port reset failed error on Windows 11.
Follow the instructions carefully, and you should be able to get your USB ports working again quickly.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure your Windows 11 system is up to date. Updates often fix hardware compatibility issues.
- Check if the USB device works on another computer. This helps identify if the problem is with the device or your PC.
- Try different USB ports on your PC to rule out a physical port issue.
- Restart your computer before starting the troubleshooting steps. Sometimes, a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches.
Step 1: Disconnect and Reconnect Your USB Device
First, safely unplug the USB device from your computer. Wait for about 10 seconds, then reconnect it to the same or a different USB port.
This simple action can reset the connection and resolve minor communication errors between your device and the PC.
Step 2: Restart the USB Root Hub Device
The USB Root Hub controls the USB ports on your PC. Restarting it can clear errors causing the reset failure.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Scroll down and expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section.
- Right-click on USB Root Hub (there may be multiple entries) and select Disable device. Confirm if prompted.
- Wait for 5 seconds, then right-click the same USB Root Hub and choose Enable device.
- Close Device Manager and check if the USB port works properly now.
This step resets the USB controller and can fix errors related to USB port resets.
Step 3: Update USB Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause USB port errors. Updating drivers ensures your system communicates properly with USB devices.
- Open Device Manager again.
- Under Universal Serial Bus controllers, right-click on each USB device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for updates online.
- Repeat for all USB-related devices listed.
- Restart your PC after updating the drivers.
If Windows doesn’t find any updates, you can visit your PC manufacturer’s website to download the latest USB drivers manually.
Step 4: Disable USB Selective Suspend Setting
Windows has a power-saving feature called USB selective suspend that can cause USB ports to malfunction. Disabling it may help fix the reset failure.
- Press Windows + S, type Control Panel, and open it.
- Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options.
- Click on Change plan settings next to your current power plan.
- Click Change advanced power settings.
- In the new window, expand USB settings, then USB selective suspend setting.
- Set both On battery and Plugged in to Disabled.
- Click Apply, then OK.
- Restart your PC to apply changes.
Disabling this helps prevent Windows from turning off USB ports to save power, which can cause reset errors.
Step 5: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Hardware and Devices
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix hardware-related issues automatically.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Find Hardware and Devices and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
- Restart your PC afterward.
This tool checks for common USB and device problems and attempts automatic fixes.
Alternative Method: Uninstall and Reinstall USB Controllers
If updating drivers does not help, you can try uninstalling USB controllers and letting Windows reinstall them.
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click each item and select Uninstall device. Confirm when prompted.
- After uninstalling all USB controllers, restart your PC.
- Windows will automatically reinstall the USB controllers during startup.
This method can fix driver corruption issues that cause USB port reset failures.
FAQs
Why does the USB port reset failed error occur?
This error usually happens due to driver issues, power management settings, or hardware glitches affecting USB communication.
Can a faulty USB device cause this error?
Yes. Testing the device on another PC helps confirm whether the problem lies with your device or the computer.
Is it safe to disable USB selective suspend?
Yes, it is safe. Disabling it stops Windows from turning off USB devices to save power but might slightly increase power consumption.
Do I need to update all drivers on my PC?
Updating USB drivers is most important for this issue. However, keeping all drivers updated improves overall system stability.
Will uninstalling USB controllers delete my data?
No. Uninstalling USB controllers only removes the drivers temporarily. Your files and data on USB devices remain safe.
When Nothing Works
If you have tried all these steps and the USB port reset failed error persists, consider the following options:
- Check for Windows updates: Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates.
- Use System Restore: Restore your system to a point before the issue started.
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support page for expert help.
- Hardware check: If possible, have your PC inspected by a technician in case of physical USB port damage.
Conclusion
The “USB port reset failed” error in Windows 11 is a common issue that can usually be fixed by following simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with disconnecting devices and restarting USB hubs, then moving on to driver updates and power setting adjustments, most users will find a solution with ease.
Remember to test devices on other PCs and keep your system updated. If needed, more advanced methods like reinstalling USB controllers or using system restore are available.
By carefully following this guide, you should be able to restore your USB ports and continue using your devices without interruption.