Troubleshooting VirtualBox USB Device Enumeration Issues on Windows 11

Oracle VirtualBox empowers users to operate multiple operating systems through various virtual machines. However, some users encounter a critical error when attempting to add USB devices to their virtual machines, preventing them from recognizing or communicating with USB devices connected to the host system. In this article, we will explore solutions for when VirtualBox cannot enumerate USB devices.

Can’t enumerate USB devices …

Failed to enumerate host USB devices

Could not load the Host USB Proxy Service (VERR_FILE_NOT_FOUND). The service might not be installed on the host computer.

Result Code: E_FAIL (0X00004005) Component: HostWrapInterface IHost {…}

How to Fix VirtualBox Unable to Enumerate USB Devices on Windows 11

If VirtualBox is unable to enumerate USB devices on your Windows 11/10 computer, apply the following solutions:

1. Restart the host computer
2. Reinstall the USB driver on the host computer
3. Update or downgrade VirtualBox
4. Install the Extension Pack
5. Enable USB Controller

Let’s delve into each solution in detail.

1] Restart the Host Computer

First, reboot your host computer to see if that resolves the issue, as it could be caused by a minor glitch. After your system restarts, open VirtualBox and try adding the USB device again. If the problem persists, move on to the next solution.

2] Reinstall the USB Driver on the Host Computer

Next, we recommend reinstalling the USB driver on your host computer, as corruption or malfunctions in the driver can lead to issues. Follow these steps:

• Unplug the USB device.
• Open Device Manager by searching for it in the Start Menu.
• Expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section, right-click on the USB device that you removed, and select Uninstall device.
• Reconnect the device and allow the driver to reinstall.

Check if the issue has been resolved after these steps.

3] Update or Downgrade VirtualBox

There are known issues with the 7.0.10 version of Oracle VirtualBox. You may want to update to version 7.1.0 if your workflow permits. Alternatively, if you can’t update, consider downgrading to a more stable previous version.

4] Install the Extension Pack

To use host USB devices within a virtual machine, it is essential to install the VirtualBox Extension Pack. If you haven’t done this yet, visit virtualbox.org to download the Extension Pack. Once it’s downloaded, follow these steps:

• Open VirtualBox.
• Click on File > Tools > Extension Pack Manager.
• Navigate to the downloaded Extension Pack and select it.
• The installation will initiate automatically.

After installing the Extension Pack, verify if the problem is resolved.

5] Enable USB Controller

If the USB Controller has been disabled in your virtual machine’s settings, you will need to enable it. Here’s how:

• Open VirtualBox.
• Right-click on the respective virtual machine and select Settings.
• Navigate to the USB section and check the box next to Enable USB Controller.
• Select the USB controller version you intend to use and save your settings.

With these adjustments, you may finally resolve the issue.

Why You Can’t Access USB in VirtualBox?

Many factors might restrict USB access in VirtualBox, but the most common issue is that USB support for the selected virtual machine may not be enabled. Refer to the previously mentioned guide to rectify this.

How to Enable a USB Device in VirtualBox?

To enable a USB device in VirtualBox, right-click the virtual machine and go to Settings. In the Settings window, navigate to USB and check the box for Enable USB Controller. Save your changes to ensure settings are applied.

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