Quick Summary
Error Code 43 in Windows Device Manager indicates that Windows has stopped a hardware device because it has reported problems. This usually means the device's drivers are either corrupted, missing, or the hardware itself is malfunctioning.
Common Causes
- Corrupted or Outdated Drivers: The most common cause is a faulty, corrupted, or outdated device driver. This can occur after a Windows update, a driver update, or a virus infection.
- Hardware Malfunction: There might be an underlying hardware issue with the device itself. This could range from a loose connection to a complete hardware failure.
- Windows Update Issues: Sometimes a recent Windows update can interfere with existing drivers, leading to incompatibility issues and Error Code 43.
- Power Supply Problems: In some cases, insufficient power being supplied to the device can cause it to malfunction and report an error.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Restart Your Computer
A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches that might be causing the error.
Restart your computer and check if the issue persists. This is often the first, simplest, and sometimes most effective solution.
Method 2: Update the Device Driver
Step 1: Open Device Manager. You can do this by searching for "Device Manager" in the Windows search bar.
Step 2: Locate the device with the error (it will likely have a yellow exclamation mark).
Step 3: Right-click on the device and select "Update driver".
Step 4: Choose "Search automatically for drivers" to let Windows find and install the latest driver. If this doesn't work, try the manufacturer's website.
Method 3: 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 usually automatically reinstall the driver on startup. If not, go back to Device Manager and select "Scan for hardware changes" under the Action menu.
Method 4: Roll Back the Device 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, click it. This will revert to the previously installed driver.
Step 5: Follow the prompts to complete the rollback. This option is only available if a previous driver version exists.
Method 5: Check Hardware Connections
Step 1: Power down your computer and unplug it from the power outlet.
Step 2: Open the computer case (if it's an internal device) and carefully inspect the connections of the affected hardware. Ensure all cables are securely connected.
Step 3: If it's an external device, check the USB or other connection cables.
Step 4: Reconnect the power supply and turn on your computer.
Method 6: Run Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Step 1: Open Settings by pressing Windows Key + I.
Step 2: Click on "Update & Security" and then select "Troubleshoot".
Step 3: Find "Hardware and Devices" in the list and click on it then press "Run the troubleshooter".
Step 4: Follow any on-screen instructions provided by the troubleshooter.
Method 7: Check Device Compatibility
Ensure that the hardware is compatible with your version of Windows. Check the manufacturer's website for compatibility information.