Quick Summary
Error Code 31 in Windows Device Manager indicates that the device is not working correctly because Windows cannot load the drivers required for this device. This issue can arise from various software or hardware related issues.
Common Causes
- Corrupted or outdated device drivers: The most common cause is a problem with the device drivers. These drivers may be outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with the current version of Windows.
- Hardware malfunction: In some cases, Error Code 31 can indicate a hardware issue with the device itself. If the hardware is failing, Windows may be unable to communicate with it properly.
- Operating System Corruption: Operating System files might be corrupt, preventing the driver from loading.
- Conflicts with other devices: Sometimes, conflicts between different devices can cause Error Code 31.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Update the Device Driver
Step 1: Open Device Manager. You can search for it in the Start Menu.
Step 2: Locate the device with the error (usually marked with a yellow exclamation point).
Step 3: Right-click on the device and select 'Update driver'.
Step 4: Choose 'Search automatically for drivers'. Windows will attempt to find and install the latest drivers.
Step 5: If Windows doesn’t find a driver, try searching for drivers on the manufacturer's website.
Method 2: Reinstall the Device Driver
Step 1: Open Device Manager.
Step 2: Locate the device with the error.
Step 3: Right-click on the device and select 'Uninstall device'.
Step 4: Restart your computer. Windows will attempt to automatically reinstall the driver upon restart.
Step 5: If the driver isn't automatically reinstalled, you may need to manually install it from the manufacturer's website.
Method 3: Roll Back the Driver
Step 1: Open Device Manager.
Step 2: Locate the device with the error.
Step 3: Right-click on the device, select 'Properties', and navigate to the 'Driver' tab.
Step 4: If the 'Roll Back Driver' button is available (not greyed out), click it. Follow the on-screen prompts.
Step 5: Restart your computer after rolling back the driver.
Method 4: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Step 1: Open Settings (Windows key + I)
Step 2: Go to 'Update & Security' then 'Troubleshoot'
Step 3: Find and run the 'Hardware and Devices' troubleshooter. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Method 5: Perform a System File Check (SFC)
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for 'cmd', right-click, and 'Run as administrator').
Step 2: Type 'sfc /scannow' and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time. The system will attempt to automatically repair any corrupted files it finds.
Step 4: Restart your computer after the scan is finished.