How do you fix a USB device that keeps disconnecting?

2 Update Drivers

Drivers are software components that allow your operating system to communicate with hardware devices. Outdated or corrupted drivers could be the reason your USB device keeps disconnecting. To update them, access the Device Manager on your computer, locate your USB device, right-click it, and select 'Update driver.' Choose to search automatically for updated driver software. If an update is available, follow the prompts to install it, then restart your computer and check if the disconnection issue persists.

3 Power Settings

Power management settings in your computer can sometimes cause USB devices to disconnect unexpectedly. To adjust these settings, go to the Control Panel, select 'Hardware and Sound,' and then 'Power Options.' Click on 'Change plan settings' next to your active plan, followed by 'Change advanced power settings.' Expand the 'USB settings' and then the 'USB selective suspend setting.' Disable this option for both battery and plugged in modes. This change can prevent your computer from turning off the USB device to save power.

4 Reset USB Root

The USB Root Hub is a software interface that allows multiple USB devices to connect to a computer. Resetting it can resolve disconnection issues. Open Device Manager, expand 'Universal Serial Bus controllers,' right-click on 'USB Root Hub,' and select 'Properties.' Under the 'Power Management' tab, uncheck 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.' Repeat this for all USB Root Hub entries. Afterward, restart your computer to apply the changes.

5 System Scan

Corrupted system files can cause USB disconnection issues. Running a system file checker can help identify and repair these files. Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges and type sfc /scannow then press Enter. This process will scan all protected system files and replace corrupted files with a cached copy. Be patient as this scan can take some time. Once complete, restart your computer and check if your USB device maintains a stable connection.

6 Hardware Troubleshoot

If none of the previous steps have resolved the issue, it's possible that there's a hardware problem with either the USB device itself or your computer's motherboard. Try using the USB device on another computer to see if it disconnects there as well. If it does, the issue is likely with the device, and it may need to be repaired or replaced. If it works fine on another system, there may be a more complex issue with your computer's hardware that could require professional diagnosis and repair.

7 Here’s what else to consider

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