How to Fix USB Not Detected on Computer (Step-by-Step Guide That Actually Works)

Few things are more frustrating than plugging in a USB device and seeing… nothing happen.

No sound.
No pop-up.
No device detected.

I’ve faced this issue many times—at office systems, client laptops, even my own computer—especially when I was in a hurry to copy files or install drivers. The good news is: most USB not detected problems are easy to fix, and you usually don’t need any technician or third-party software.

Let’s fix it step by step, the same way I personally troubleshoot it.

Why Is My USB Not Detected? (Common Reasons)

Before jumping into solutions, it helps to know why this happens:

• Faulty USB port

• Damaged USB cable or pen drive

• Power supply issue

• Outdated or corrupted USB drivers

• Windows settings or software conflict

• File system error in the USB device

In most cases, the issue is not serious—just a small setting or connection problem.

Step 1: Try the Obvious (But Often Ignored)

I know this sounds basic, but trust me—this alone fixes the problem many times.

✔ Remove the USB device
✔ Restart your computer
✔ Plug the USB into a different USB port
✔ If possible, try the USB on another computer

👉 If the USB works on another PC, your computer is the issue.
👉 If it doesn’t work anywhere, the USB device itself may be faulty.

Step 2: Check for Power Issues (Very Common)

Sometimes USB ports don’t get enough power.

Quick fixes that work:

• Avoid USB hubs temporarily

• Plug the USB directly into the CPU or laptop

• For external hard drives, use their power adapter

Low power is a silent culprit—especially on older PCs.

Step 3: Use Disk Management (Hidden But Powerful)

Many times, Windows detects the USB but doesn’t show it.

Do this:

1. Press Windows + X

2. Click Disk Management

3. Look for a removable drive without a letter

If you see it:

• Right-click → Change Drive Letter

• Assign a new letter → OK

📌 This method has saved me more USB drives than I can count.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall USB Drivers

Driver issues are a major cause of USB not detected errors.

Steps:

1. Press Windows + X

2. Open Device Manager

3. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers

4. Right-click each USB device → Uninstall

5. Restart your computer

Windows will automatically reinstall fresh drivers.

✔ Safe
✔ No data loss
✔ Very effective

Step 5: Disable USB Power Saving (Highly Recommended)

Windows sometimes turns off USB ports to save power.

Here’s how to stop that:

1. Open Device Manager

2. Right-click USB Root Hub → Properties

3. Go to Power Management

4. Uncheck: Allow the computer to turn off…

5. Click OK

Do this for all USB Root Hub entries.

Step 6: Check for File System Errors

If your USB is detected but won’t open:

1. Open This PC

2. Right-click USB drive

3. Select Properties → Tools

4. Click Check

Windows will repair minor errors automatically.

Step 7: Scan for Windows Updates

Outdated system files can cause USB detection issues.

• Go to Settings → Windows Update

• Install pending updates

• Restart your system

I’ve personally seen USB ports come back to life after a simple update.

When Is the USB Device Actually Dead?

Sometimes, honesty is important.

Your USB may be damaged if:

• It heats up abnormally

• It’s not detected on any device

• Physical connector is loose or broken

In that case, data recovery tools or professional help may be required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don’t force the USB into the port
❌ Don’t format without checking data importance
❌ Don’t install random driver software from unknown sites

These mistakes often make the problem worse.