How to Fix Device Descriptor Request Failed (Unknown USB device) in Windows 10

Sun-Dec-2023
14

The error message “Device Descriptor Request Failed (Unknown USB device)” in Windows 10 indicates that your computer is unable to recognize or communicate with a USB device that is plugged in. This can be caused by a number of factors, including hardware issues, outdated or corrupted drivers, or conflicts with other devices or software.

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can try to fix the “Device Descriptor Request Failed (Unknown USB device)” error in Windows 10:

  1. Reconnect the USB device: Try plugging the USB device into a different USB port on your computer. Sometimes, the issue may be with a specific USB port or port controller.

  2. Try a different USB device: If the problem persists, try plugging in a different USB device to see if it’s recognized. If the other device works fine, then the issue is likely with the first device itself.

  3. Update USB drivers: Outdated or corrupted USB drivers can cause communication issues with USB devices. To update your USB drivers, follow these steps:

    1. Open Device Manager.
    2. Expand the “Universal Serial Bus controllers” section.
    3. Right-click on the USB device that is causing the error and select “Update driver”.
    4. Select “Search automatically for updated driver software”.
    5. If Windows finds a newer driver, it will install it automatically. If not, you may need to download and install the driver manually from the manufacturer’s website.

  4. Disable Fast Startup: Fast Startup is a feature in Windows 10 that can sometimes cause conflicts with USB devices. To disable Fast Startup, follow these steps:

      1. Open the Control Panel.
      2. Click on “System and Security”.
      3. Click on “Power Options”.
      4. Click on “Change settings that are currently unavailable”.
    1. Under “Shutdown settings”, uncheck the box next to “Turn on fast startup (recommended)”.
    2. Click on “Save changes”.
    3. Restart your computer.

  5. Disable USB Selective Suspend: USB Selective Suspend is a feature in Windows 10 that can sometimes cause problems with USB devices. To disable USB Selective Suspend, follow these steps:

    1. Open Device Manager.
    2. Expand the “Universal Serial Bus controllers” section.
    3. Right-click on the USB root hub and select “Properties”.
    4. Click on the “Power Management” tab.
    5. Uncheck the box next to “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power”.
    6. Click “OK”.
    7. Restart your computer.

  6. Run the Hardware and Device troubleshooter: Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix problems with hardware devices, including USB devices. To run the Hardware and Device troubleshooter, follow these steps:

    1. Open Settings.
    2. Click on “Update & Security”.
    3. Click on “Troubleshoot”.
    4. Click on “Hardware and Devices”.
    5. Click on “Run the troubleshooter”.
    6. Follow the on-screen instructions to run the troubleshooter.

If you have tried all of these troubleshooting steps and you are still seeing the “Device Descriptor Request Failed (Unknown USB device)” error, you may need to contact the manufacturer of your USB device for further assistance. They may be able to provide you with more specific troubleshooting steps or identify a known issue with the device.

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