Peripherals

USB ports on laptop or desktop not working

When multiple USB ports stop working at once, it usually points to a driver, power management, or USB controller issue on the computer, rather than every connected device failing simultaneously.

Difficulty
Moderate
Time
20–40 minutes
DIY cost
$0–$30
Pro cost
$80–$200

Symptoms

  • No USB devices are recognized in any port
  • Some ports work, others don't
  • Ports worked before a Windows update, not after
  • Devices work briefly then disconnect repeatedly

Likely causes

  • CommonUSB controller driver issueWindows updates occasionally affect USB controller drivers, disrupting all connected ports.
  • CommonUSB selective suspend or power management settingWindows can power down USB ports to save energy, sometimes too aggressively.
  • PossibleToo many devices drawing power without a powered hubMultiple high-power devices can exceed what unpowered ports can supply.
  • PossiblePhysical port damageA bent pin or debris in the port can prevent proper contact.
  • Less commonMotherboard or USB hardware failureOn desktops, a failing motherboard USB header or hub chip can take out multiple ports.

What to do

  1. Restart the computer, since this resolves many temporary USB driver glitches.
  2. In Device Manager, expand 'Universal Serial Bus controllers,' right-click each USB Root Hub, go to Power Management, and uncheck 'Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.'
  3. Uninstall the USB controllers in Device Manager and restart, which forces Windows to reinstall fresh drivers.
  4. Check each port visually for bent pins, debris, or damage using a flashlight.
  5. If using several devices, connect a powered USB hub to rule out a power supply limitation.
  6. Test each port with a single simple device (like a mouse) to isolate which specific ports are affected.
  7. Check Windows Update for the latest chipset drivers from the computer manufacturer's website.

Tools and parts

  • Flashlight
Powered USB hubSearch: “powered usb 3.0 hub”

When to call a pro

If multiple ports fail after driver and power management fixes, and no physical damage is visible, a technician should check the motherboard's USB circuitry.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.