What is USB Error Code 43 on Windows?

Windows is no stranger to error messages like the 43 code. In this article, we will discuss what causes it and how to fix it. Are you ready? Let’s get started.

About the USB Error Code 43 on Windows 10/11

The USB error code 43 is one of the many Device Manager error codes. It usually occurs when the Device Manager stops a hardware device from running because the hardware reported to the system that it is experiencing some sort of a problem.

This report could be very generic, but there are times when it simply means that Windows cannot identify a certain driver error and the hardware being affected by it.

Most of the time, details about the error code will be shown when you view on a certain device’s properties. In most cases, this issue occurs among hardware devices, including video cards and USB devices, such as web cameras, iPhones, printers, and other external peripherals.

How to Fix USB Error Code 43

So, how do you fix the Windows 10/11 USB error code 43? We’ll explain the solutions in detail below.

Solution #1: Restart your PC and use another USB port

Oftentimes, the USB error code 43 can be resolved by simply restarting your PC. Simply go to the Windows menu, click the Power button, and select Restart. It’s easy as pie.

You may also try inserting the problematic USB device into another port. Perhaps, the port is causing the issue. If this quick workaround does not get rid of the error code, proceed to the next solution.

Solution #2: Use another PC and make sure you eject the USB device properly

Try to connect the USB device to another PC. If it works, then congratulations. You can then proceed with ejecting the USB device properly and conclude that the problem is with your system.

Solution #3: Ensure the USB driver is up to date or roll back to a previously working state

Another possible reason why the error code 43 shows is that your USB device drivers are outdated. To fix the problem, you can download the updated version of the driver from the official manufacturer’s website. After that, follow the instructions on how to install them.

If you are feeling a bit adventurous or you trust in your troubleshooting skills, you can choose to do things yourself. Begin by right-clicking on the Start menu and selecting Device Manager. In the window that appears, you will see all the devices that are currently connected to your PC. Right-click on your USB device’s name. And then, go to Disk Drivers. Right-click on USB Disk. Choose Update Driver and navigate to the Automatic Search for Updated Driver Software tab.

For those who are not tech-savvy, the use of a third-party driver updater tool is highly recommended. In just one click, all the outdated drivers on your PC should be updated. It will also prevent potential device conflicts that may arise as it ensures compatibility.

Although this process may take some time, many have successfully resolved the error code by doing this. Once the update process is completed, restart your PC. Hopefully, the Windows error code 43 is resolved.

Solution #4: Re-enable the device driver

If you are very familiar with Device Manager, you may try to re-enable your USB. Simply navigate to the Driver tab and select Disable Device. After that, click Enable Device.

Solution #5: Update the BIOS

Sometimes, an outdated BIOS can trigger error codes to show, including the error code 43. Before you update your BIOS, check it first using the Command Prompt. If it’s outdated, proceed with downloading the updated BIOS file and begin with the update process.

Check Your BIOS Version

To check the BIOS version of your PC, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Start
2. Into the search field, input cmd.
3. Click on the most relevant search result.
4. Into the command line, enter this command: wmic bios get smbiosbiosversion.
5. Hit Enter.
6. You should now see your BIOS’s version number.

Update Your BIOS

To update your BIOS, here’s what you should do:

1. First, launch your preferred web browser and go to your motherboard manufacturer’s official website.
2. Find the Support or Downloads page for your motherboard’s model.
3. In the list of available versions, download the most recent version.
4. Your BIOS download usually comes in a ZIP file. Extract all the contents.
5. Find the BIOS file. It is usually named E7887IMS.140. It will also contain a README file that will serve as your guide on how to update the new BIOS. Check this file for a more detailed guide on what to do.

Solution #6: Restore your system to a previously working state

Did you install an app prior to seeing the USB error code 43? Did you make any significant system change? If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then you may have found another possible culprit. To resolve the issue, use System Restore to undo any recent changes you have done to Device Manager.

To access System Restore, go to Control Panel. Navigate to System > System Protection and click System Restore. Select a restore point when your PC was still working just fine.

Solution #7: Replace the faulty USB device

The device itself could be causing the error code 43 in Windows. If this is the case, replacing it is your last and most logical option.

Recover Your Data

In case none of the solutions above worked, and you need to recover important data from a damaged USB device, then it’s time that you use a data recovery tool.

Even if you are not a PC professional, you can easily and conveniently recover your important files with a recovery tool. As long as you set it up properly, there shouldn’t be any problems.

What’s Next?

Yes, error codes in the Windows environment may be common. However, at this point, you should already know what to do when faced with the USB error code 43 in Windows 10/11. You may start with a simple PC restart and slowly work your way down our other suggested solutions. If you feel that the steps are too complicated, do not hesitate to ask help from professionals.

Do you know other quick fixes to USB problems? Share them with us below.