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If you are encountering Xbox Error E105 on your Windows 11 PC, it can be frustrating. This error usually appears when there is a problem connecting your Xbox controller or software with the system. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to resolve it.

This article will guide you through simple and effective solutions to fix Xbox Error E105. Each method is explained in detail to help even beginners understand and implement them.

Follow the steps in order, starting from the easiest to more advanced fixes. This approach will save you time and make troubleshooting smoother.

By the end, you should have your Xbox controller working properly with Windows 11 again.

Quick Note Before You Begin

• Make sure your Windows 11 system is fully updated. Microsoft often releases fixes that improve device compatibility.
• Check that your Xbox controller has fresh batteries or is fully charged.
• Confirm your USB cable or wireless connection (Bluetooth) is working correctly.
• Restart your computer before starting any troubleshooting to clear temporary glitches.

Step 1: Restart the Xbox Services on Windows 11

Sometimes, the services that handle Xbox controllers may stop working properly. Restarting them can fix communication issues.

1. Press Windows + R keys on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. In the Services window, look for these services:
   • Xbox Accessory Management Service
   • Xbox Live Auth Manager
   • Xbox Live Networking Service
4. Right-click each service and select Restart.
5. If any service is not running, right-click it and choose Start.
6. After restarting, try connecting your Xbox controller again.

Why this helps: These services manage the connection and authentication of your Xbox devices. Restarting them refreshes their state and can clear errors like E105.

Step 2: Update Xbox Controller Drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause connection errors. Updating the drivers ensures your controller works well with Windows 11.

1. Connect your Xbox controller to your PC via USB or wireless adapter.
2. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
3. Expand the Xbox Peripherals or Human Interface Devices section.
4. Right-click on your Xbox controller device and select Update driver.
5. Choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will look for the latest version and install it.
6. Restart your PC after the update completes.

Why this matters: Updated drivers fix bugs and improve compatibility, which can directly solve error E105 issues.

Step 3: Reinstall Xbox Controller Drivers

If updating drivers didn’t help, reinstalling them can fix corrupted files.

1. Open Device Manager again.
2. Find your Xbox controller under the appropriate device category.
3. Right-click it and select Uninstall device.
4. Confirm the uninstallation.
5. Disconnect the controller from your PC.
6. Restart your computer.
7. Reconnect the controller. Windows will automatically detect it and reinstall the drivers.

Why reinstalling helps: This process removes any problematic driver files and replaces them with fresh copies.

Step 4: Run the Windows Troubleshooter for Hardware and Devices

Windows has built-in tools to detect and fix hardware problems.

1. Click the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Find Hardware and Devices in the list and click Run.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.
5. Once finished, test your controller again.

Why use the troubleshooter: It automatically identifies issues with connected devices and applies fixes, saving you manual effort.

Step 5: Check Bluetooth Settings (If Using Wireless Controller)

If you connect your Xbox controller via Bluetooth, ensure the Bluetooth settings are correct.

1. Open Settings and go to Bluetooth & devices.
2. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
3. Check if your Xbox controller appears in the list of paired devices.
4. If it’s present but not working, select it and click Remove device.
5. Put your controller into pairing mode by holding the Pair button until the Xbox button flashes rapidly.
6. Click Add device and select Bluetooth.
7. Choose your Xbox controller from the list and complete pairing.

Why this is important: Sometimes, Bluetooth connections can become unstable or corrupted, causing errors like E105.

Alternative Method: Use the Xbox Accessories App

The Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store can sometimes diagnose and fix controller issues.

• Open the Microsoft Store and search for Xbox Accessories.
• Install and launch the app.
• Connect your Xbox controller.
• The app will detect your controller and may prompt you to update its firmware.
• Follow the instructions to complete the update.

This method is useful because firmware updates often fix bugs and improve performance.

FAQs

What does Xbox Error E105 mean?

Error E105 usually indicates a connection or authentication problem between your Xbox controller and Windows 11. It can be caused by driver issues, Bluetooth problems, or Xbox services not running properly.

Can I use a wired connection to fix Error E105?

Yes, using a USB cable to connect your controller can help bypass Bluetooth-related issues and simplify troubleshooting.

Is it safe to uninstall Xbox drivers?

Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling drivers is a common troubleshooting step. Windows will reinstall the necessary drivers automatically when you reconnect the device.

Do I need to update Windows to fix this error?

Keeping Windows updated is highly recommended because updates include important fixes for hardware compatibility.

What if my controller still doesn’t work after trying these steps?

There may be a hardware problem with your controller or PC. Try using the controller on another device to confirm.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and Xbox Error E105 persists, consider the following options:

• Visit the official Xbox Support website for more troubleshooting guides and contact options.
• Reset your Xbox controller by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then try reconnecting.
• Try using a different USB cable or Bluetooth adapter if available.
• Check for any hardware issues by testing the controller on another PC or Xbox console.

Conclusion

Xbox Error E105 on Windows 11 is often caused by simple connectivity or driver issues. Starting with basic fixes like restarting Xbox services and updating drivers can save you time.

Reinstalling drivers, running Windows troubleshooters, and checking Bluetooth settings cover most common causes. Using the Xbox Accessories app provides an additional way to update controller firmware and resolve problems.

If these steps don’t work, official Xbox Support and hardware checks are the next best options. Following this guide should help you get your Xbox controller working smoothly on Windows 11 without hassle.