Fix USB Composite Device Driver Error in Windows 11
This article will guide you through resolving the USB Composite Device Driver error on Windows 11. A yellow exclamation mark beside the USB Composite Device in Device Manager indicates that there’s an issue with the device—most likely related to the driver facilitating communication between your device and Windows.
Understanding USB Composite Devices in Windows 11
In the context of Windows 11, a USB composite device is designed to perform multiple functions via a single connection. For instance, a multifunction printer that can print, scan, and fax, all through one USB connection. This design optimizes USB port usage while allowing the operating system to manage each function discretely.
Common Causes of the USB Composite Device Driver Error
The USB Composite Device Driver error often stems from outdated or incompatible drivers, particularly when older devices are connected to USB 3.0 ports. Other potential culprits include improper power management settings, recent Windows updates, or corrupt driver installations that hinder proper device recognition.
Steps to Resolve the USB Composite Device Driver Error
Here are some practical solutions for addressing the USB Composite Device Driver error on your Windows 11 or 10 computer:
- Utilize the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter
- Update the USB Composite Device driver
- Uninstall and then reinstall the USB Composite Device Driver
- Adjust USB Port Settings
- Connect to a USB 2.0 Port
Let’s dive into each step in detail.
1] Use the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Although the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter is no longer directly accessible in Windows 11 settings as Microsoft has phased out some troubleshooters, you can still launch it through the command prompt.
Press Win + R on your keyboard, type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic in the Run box, and hit Enter.
This command will start the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter, guiding you through various prompts. Once the assessment is complete, it will provide a summary of detected problems along with potential solutions. Apply the recommended fixes, reconnect your USB composite device, and check if the error has been resolved.
2] Update the USB Composite Device Driver
Keeping your drivers updated ensures that you receive the latest bug fixes and compatibility enhancements, enabling your device to function correctly within the Windows operating system.
Right-click the Start button and choose Device Manager. Next, expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section, locate the USB Composite Device, right-click it, and select Update driver. Then, choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
Windows will search both your system and the internet for any applicable driver updates. If it finds a newer version, it will download and install it automatically.
If this method fails, consider alternative ways to update drivers, such as using Windows Update or visiting the manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers manually.
3] Uninstall and Reinstall the USB Composite Device Driver
By uninstalling the driver, you can eliminate any corrupted or outdated driver files, allowing Windows to install a fresh version. This can restore proper functionality to the device and resolve communication issues, potentially fixing the error you are encountering.
In Device Manager, find the USB Composite Device. Right-click it and select Uninstall device. After the uninstallation, disconnect the USB device and restart your PC.
Upon rebooting, reconnect the device, and Windows should automatically reinstall the necessary drivers.
4] Modify USB Port Settings
Windows power-saving settings might turn off the USB Composite Device when it’s inactive, leading to connectivity issues. Adjusting settings such as disabling USB selective suspend or modifying power management options in Device Manager can enhance power supply to the USB ports and improve device detection.
Access Device Manager and expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section.
Make necessary changes and click OK to apply them.
This step will prevent Windows from automatically disabling the USB Composite Device to conserve power. After applying these changes, restart your PC and see if it correctly identifies the device.
5] Try Using a USB 2.0 Port
While USB 3.0 ports are typically backward compatible with older standards like USB 2.0 or 1.1, some older devices, particularly USB Composite Devices, may encounter issues when used with USB 3.0 ports.
If your computer offers both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, connect your USB composite device to a USB 2.0 port. This often resolves backward compatibility challenges.
We hope this information is helpful.
How Can I Fix USB Driver Errors in Windows 11?
To resolve USB driver errors in Windows 11, locate the device exhibiting the error (often highlighted with a yellow exclamation mark) in Device Manager, right-click it, and select Update driver. If that does not yield results, consider uninstalling the device and then restarting your computer to allow Windows to reinstall the driver automatically.
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