Ultimate Guide to Fixing 'Windows Stopped This Device' Error (Code 43)

Surely you have ever encountered the annoying message of Windows informing you that has stopped a device because it has detected problems (code 43). This warning can appear at any time and affect anything from a simple flash drive to your graphics card, complicating your day and jeopardizing your favorite files and peripherals. The good news is that most of the time, this error doesn't mean your hardware is irreversibly damaged; rather, it's usually due to minor configuration errors, driver issues, or, in some cases, incompatibilities or power issues.

If you've come this far looking for solutions, you'll be glad to know that there are a variety of Methods to resolve the error "Windows has stopped this device" And by following this article, you'll be able to restore your devices to normal operation without losing data or complicating your life. Throughout this content, we'll guide you step-by-step through all the available alternatives, breaking down causes, solutions, and tips for both preventing the problem and addressing its root cause if it has already appeared.

What does the error 'Windows stopped this device because it reported problems (code 43)' mean?

Code 43 is one of the most common error codes you can find in the Device administrator of Windows when you connect external hardware or work with internal components. Its message is often as clear as it is disconcerting: "Windows has stopped this device because it reported problems (Code 43)." In other words, the operating system has detected that something is wrong with the device in question and, as a preventive measure, is disconnecting it to avoid further problems or security breaches.

Among the most frequently affected devices are USB drives, external hard drives, printers, webcams, and even graphics cards. The reason why this error arises is usually related to:

• Problems in the hardware itself (for example, internal failures or obsolescence).
• Corrupt, outdated or incompatible drivers.
• Conflicts arising from Windows updates or recent software installations.
• Insufficient power supplied by USB ports.
• Incorrect settings or temporary errors in the operating system itself.

Code 43, although alarming, can usually be resolved, and in most cases there is no need to panic or think that the device is ready to be thrown away. What is best is to act calmly, follow the appropriate steps, and not panic.

What are the symptoms and consequences of error 43?

When error 43 appears, you'll notice that the affected device will no longer be available on the system. This failure may be accompanied by symptoms such as:

• The device is no longer recognizable by the computer.
• The system sends notifications reporting problems with the unit.
• You cannot access files stored on external hardware.
• The device appears with a yellow warning icon in Device Manager.

Sometimes the error occurs after a recent system change, such as a Windows update, installing or uninstalling programs, or connecting new hardware. It can also appear seemingly spontaneously, as a result of energy problems or specific incompatibilities.

It's critical to identify these symptoms and take action before the problem leads to data loss or permanent damage to the device.

Common causes of error 43 in Windows

The code 43 message can have several origins, and understanding them is key to applying the correct solution. These are the most common causes:

• Outdated, corrupt, or incorrectly installed drivers: If the system does not recognize the hardware correctly, or uses drivers incompatible, will block the operation of the device.
• Hardware issues: A physical failure in the device, damaged cables, USB connectors, or even the motherboard could be the cause.
• Temporary Windows errors: Sometimes, your system may experience occasional crashes after performing updates, installing programs, or changing settings.
• Lack of sufficient power in the USB ports: Specially in portable or USB hubs without external power, some peripherals may not receive the necessary power to function properly.
• Virus or malware: Some malware They can modify the behavior of devices or block their operation.

Pinpointing the cause will help you get straight to the point and save you unnecessary testing.

Which devices are usually affected?

Code 43 can appear on virtually any device connected to your computer, but the most common are:

• USB flash drives (pendrives, external hard drives, memory cards via a USB reader, etc.).
• Printers and scanners that work through USB ports.
• Webcams, keyboards, mice, and game controllers.
• Graphics cards, especially after driver updates or hardware issues.

If your device is on this list, the steps and tips below will be especially helpful.

First steps to diagnose and resolve error code 43

Before delving into complex solutions, we recommend performing a series of basic checks that can quickly and easily resolve the problem.

• Restart your computer: It may seem silly, but many temporary failures are solved by simply turning the equipment off and on.
• Disconnect and reconnect the device: Remove the affected hardware from its port and reconnect it. Also, try other USB ports.
• Check the device on another computer: If you have access to another PC, test the device there to rule out the problem with your computer.
• Change the connection cable: Cables, especially those used with hard drives or printers, can fail over time. Replacing them may resolve the problem.

If the error persists after these steps, continue reading to try more advanced methods.

Permanent solutions to error 43: step-by-step guide

1. Run the hardware and devices troubleshooter

Windows has automatic tools that can detect and repair hardware-related problems. To run it:

• press Windows + R and writes msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic.
• Press Enter and follow the instructions in the window that appears.
• Let the system analyze possible conflicts and apply suggested repairs.

This method is especially useful if the error has suddenly occurred after updating Windows or installing new hardware.

2. Update device drivers

In most cases, the source of the error lies in faulty or outdated drivers. To update them correctly:

• Open the Device administrator (you can search for it in the Start menu).
• Locate the device with the error (it will appear with a yellow icon).
• Right click on it and select Update Driver.
• Choose the option Search for drivers automatically. If you have the drivers on your computer, select Browse My PC and navigate to the corresponding folder.

If the system doesn't locate a newer driver, visit your device manufacturer's official website and download the latest software available.

3. Uninstall and reinstall the device

Uninstalling and reinstalling can correct conflicts that cannot be resolved with a simple update. The steps are:

• The Device administrator, right-click on the problematic hardware and select Uninstall device.
• Confirm the deletion when prompted by the system.
• Restart your computer. When you log back in, Windows will attempt to automatically detect and reinstall the device.

Check if the error message has disappeared by looking in the device properties. If it says "This device is working correctly," problem solved!

4. Change the power management of the USB ports

Windows can automatically turn off USB ports to save power, but this sometimes causes recognition issues. To avoid this:

• Open the Device administrator and unfolds Universal series bus controllers.
• Right click on USB Root Driver, Select Properties, and go to the tab Power management.
• Uncheck the option Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.

Repeat this step for each USB root port to ensure none are shut down improperly.

5. Restart or shut down your computer

Don't underestimate the power of a hard reset. If you've made software changes, updates, or disconnected devices, restart your PC. You can even turn it off completely, wait a few minutes, and then turn it back on.

This simple step resolves many temporary issues without you having to touch anything else.

6. Check if the problem persists on other computers

To definitively rule out the possibility that the error is in your computer and not in the hardware, test the device on another PC. If it doesn't work there either or the same error appears, everything points to the device being physically damaged or needing to be formatted.

7. Restore the system to a previous point

If the error occurred after an update, software installation, or configuration change, restoring your system can save you a lot of headaches. Follow these steps:

• Enter in the Control panel and select System.
• Click on Advanced System Settings.
• Access the tab System protection and press System Restore.
• Select a point before the error occurred and follow the instructions.

This action reverts any recent changes that may have triggered Code 43, keeping your personal documents and files intact.

8. Remove the latest Windows update

Sometimes a recent Windows update can create incompatibilities that cause error 43. You can remove it like this:

• Go to Configuration > Update and security.
• Click on View update history and write down the code for the most recent update.
• Choose Uninstall updates, locate the one that matches, and uninstall it.
• Restart your computer to see if the error disappears.

If the issue persists after uninstalling the update, consider upgrading to a newer version of Windows, if available, or reinstalling the drivers for the affected hardware.

9. Update the operating system

Keeping Windows and its drivers up to date is vital to avoid these types of errors. To actualize:

• Opens Configuration > Update and security > Windows Update.
• Click on Search for updates and install the ones that are available.

This will ensure you have the latest security and compatibility fixes provided by Microsoft.

10. Format the computer (as a last resort)

If you've tried all the steps above and the error still appears, the problem may be with the operating system itself. Formatting and installing Windows from scratch is the most drastic solution, but also the definitive one to rule out software or deep configuration errors.

Before you do this, back up all your important files and data. You can use cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive or MEGA, or a separate external hard drive.

Once your system is clean and operational, install the latest software and drivers before reconnecting devices.