Connecting a USB device to your computer and seeing a message saying the device is not connected properly or that Windows cannot recognize it can be frustrating. One of the most common messages in this situation is error code 45This error indicates that even though the hardware is physically connected, the operating system cannot communicate with it.
At first glance, the problem may seem complicated, but the truth is that there are several solutions, most of them quite accessible to any user with basic computer skills. In this article, we'll review all possible causes and their detailed solutions, based on both official sources and the best published articles on the subject. If you're willing to read on, here's the Ultimate guide to solving error 45 when connecting a USB in Windows.
What exactly does error 45 mean in Windows?
This error appears when the system says something like “This hardware device is not connected to the computer (Code 45)”. But the funny thing is that the device is plugged in. What this code really means is that The system cannot establish communication with the device, not that it's physically unplugged. Causes can range from purely physical problems to configuration settings or driver errors.
Most common causes of error 45 in Windows
Before you start trying solutions, it's a good idea to understand what might be causing the problem:
- Corrupt or outdated drivers
- Electrical failures in the USB port
- Physical problems with the cable or connector
- Error in the Windows registry
- Failed OS updates
- Malware that interferes with USB devices
- Lack of sufficient power supplied to the port
- USB selective suspend function active
Basic initial checks for error 45 in Windows
1. Try another USB port
A simple but effective solution. Not all USB ports are created equal: some offer more power or a more modern version of the standard (2.0, 3.0, 3.1). Try the device on a different port to see if the error disappears. If so, the problem is probably with the original port.
2. Use another USB cable (if applicable)
If you are using a peripheral that relies on a cable (such as an external hard drive), try another working cableMany problems originate from faulty or low-quality cables.
3. Test the device on another computer
Connect the same USB to another computer. If it's still not recognized, the device is most likely faulty. If it works without any issues, then you'll need to investigate your system further. It's worth mentioning that sometimes the problem can be related to error in the mobile USB connection.
4. Cleaning the USB port
Accumulated dust or dirt can prevent proper contact inside the port. Use compressed air or an antistatic tool to clean it. Avoid inserting metal objects that could physically damage the connector.
5. Restart the computer
It seems obvious, but Restarting Windows can fix temporary errorsYou have nothing to lose by trying this option as a first step.
Update Windows and check for pending updates when error 45 occurs
Error 45 may be due to Compatibility issues that have already been fixed in patches or updates. Therefore, it's always a good idea to make sure your system is up to date.
Steps to check for updates:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings
- Accede to Update and security
- Click on Search for updates
Install all available updates and restart your computer. Then test the USB device again.
Use the hardware troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in utility that automatically detects hardware errors and tries to solve them.
To run it:
- Press Windows + R
- Writes:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic - Click on Next and let it run
Upon completion, you'll see a report with the actions taken. If anything is found, it will automatically apply the fixes.
Update or reinstall USB drivers
One of the most common causes of this error is damaged, misconfigured, or outdated drivers. Sometimes it is useful to check if there is any incompatibility with other devices, such as in the processor is not compatible with Windows 11.
Update driver from Device Manager
- Right-click the Start button
- Choose Device administrator
- Expand the section Universal series bus controllers
- Right-click on the problem device (usually marked with a yellow triangle)
- Choose Update Driver
- Choose the automatic search option
Reinstall the driver
If the update doesn't work, try the following:
- Right-click on the problematic device
- Choose Uninstall device
- Restart the computer
Windows will automatically reinstall the driver when it detects the new hardware upon power-up.
Force hardware change detection
From the Device Manager you can make the system recognize and reinstall connected devices:
- Open Device Manager
- Click on Action > Scan for hardware changes
This way, Windows will attempt to manually detect any connected devices and reinstall their drivers.
Check for errors on the hard drive
Use the command chkdsk all with Check for unit failures that may be preventing the devices from functioning properly.It's also essential to ensure there are no hard drive space issues, which can affect overall system performance.
Steps:
- Search cmd in the start menu
- Right click on the result and select Run as administrator
- Write the command:
chkdsk C: /fand press enter
Confirm that you're prompted to restart and let the process run. This will repair any damage to the file system structure.
Throughout this article we have reviewed all the common causes that cause error 45 in Windows when connecting a USB device, and we have also detailed, step by step, all the possible solutions.From the simplest, such as changing the port, cleaning the connector, or restarting the computer, to the more technical, such as editing the registry, manually updating drivers, or disabling advanced power features, there are a wide range of measures you can apply to resolve this error.
The key is to follow a logical and orderly approach, testing each step based on what you rule out. With time and patience, in most cases this problem can be resolved without replacing the hardware or calling a technician. Share the guide and help other users resolve this error 45 in Windows.