Windows typically recognizes and installs drivers for new hardware automatically, whether it’s an internal component like a graphics card or an external device like a scanner. You can verify this in the Device Manager (right-click the Start button > Device Manager), which should list all devices without errors. But what if Windows flags a component with a yellow exclamation mark, and Windows Update can’t find the correct drivers? Identifying the problematic hardware can be challenging, especially when the Device Manager lists it as “Other devices – Unknown device.”
This guide will walk you through the steps to identify and install the correct drivers for unrecognized hardware in Windows, avoiding the guesswork and potential risks of randomly trying drivers.
Pinpointing the Unrecognized Hardware
Instead of experimenting with different drivers, use Windows itself to help identify the unknown device. Follow these steps:
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Open Device Manager: Right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager.”
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Locate the Unknown Device: Find the device marked with a yellow exclamation point, typically under “Other devices.”
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Access Device Properties: Right-click on the unknown device and select “Properties.”
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Navigate to the Events Tab: In the Properties window, click on the “Events” tab.
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Copy the Device Designation: Highlight the device designation in the Information section at the bottom of the tab. This information, while sometimes cryptic, is key to identifying the hardware. Copy this information to your clipboard.
The Events > Properties tab in Windows Device Manager.The Events tab in the Device Manager provides crucial information for identifying unknown hardware. This example shows a correctly configured device.
Finding the Correct Drivers
Now that you have the device designation, use it to find the right drivers:
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Use a Search Engine: Paste the copied device designation into a Google search. Include the device manufacturer and the specific device name if you know it. This search should reveal the name of your component.
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Download from Official Sources: Once you’ve identified the hardware, download the corresponding driver from the official support website of your PC or device manufacturer. Avoid downloading drivers from third-party sites, as they may contain malware.
Installing the Drivers
After downloading the correct driver, follow these steps to install it:
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Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded driver file to run the installation program. Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Restart Your Computer: After the installation completes, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
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Verify in Device Manager: Open the Device Manager again. The previously unrecognized hardware should now be correctly identified and functioning without any errors.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting unrecognized hardware in Windows can be straightforward with the right approach. By using the information provided by Windows itself and downloading drivers from official sources, you can ensure your hardware functions correctly while maintaining the security of your system. Remember to always prioritize official manufacturer websites for driver downloads to minimize the risk of malware.
