If you’re having trouble with your USB ports on Windows 11, resetting them can often solve the problem. To do this, you’ll need to uninstall and reinstall the USB controllers. This process ensures that the USB ports are refreshed and should start working again. Follow the steps below, and your USB ports should be back to normal in no time.
How to Reset USB Ports on Windows 11
Resetting your USB ports on Windows 11 will involve uninstalling the USB controllers, which will force Windows 11 to reinstall them. This can resolve issues like unresponsive USB devices. Let’s dive into the steps to get your USB ports working again.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, click on the Windows Start button and type "Device Manager" to open it.
Device Manager is where you can see all the hardware connected to your computer, including USB controllers. It’s like a control center for your computer’s gadgets.
Step 2: Expand the Universal Serial Bus Controllers
In the Device Manager, find and double-click on "Universal Serial Bus controllers" to expand the list.
This section shows all the USB controllers and ports on your PC. It’s like peeking behind the scenes to see what’s making your USB devices tick.
Step 3: Uninstall Each USB Controller
Right-click on each USB controller listed and select "Uninstall device." Confirm any prompts that appear.
Don’t worry; you’re not breaking anything. Uninstalling these will force Windows to reinstall the drivers the next time you restart your computer.
Step 4: Restart Your Computer
After uninstalling all the USB controllers, restart your computer.
Restarting your computer will trigger Windows to automatically reinstall the USB controllers. Think of it as giving your computer a fresh start.
Step 5: Check Your USB Ports
Once your computer restarts, check if the USB ports are now working by plugging in a USB device.
Your USB ports should be reset and functioning properly now. If they’re still not working, you might need to look into other potential hardware issues.
After completing these steps, your USB ports should be reset, and any issues you were experiencing should be resolved. If they aren’t, it might be time to consider other troubleshooting steps or consult a professional.
Tips for Resetting USB Ports on Windows 11
- Backup important data: Always make sure to back up any important data before performing hardware changes.
- Keep your drivers updated: Regularly check for and install updates for your USB drivers.
- Use different USB ports: If one USB port isn’t working, try another before resetting everything.
- Check for hardware damage: Sometimes the issue might be physical damage to the USB ports.
- Use Device Manager for diagnostics: You can use the Device Manager to diagnose other hardware issues, not just USB problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my USB ports still don’t work after resetting them?
If your USB ports still don’t work, there might be a hardware issue. You may need to get your computer checked by a professional.
Will I lose any data by resetting my USB ports?
No, resetting your USB ports will not delete any data. It only refreshes the USB controllers.
Can I reset my USB ports without restarting my computer?
Restarting your computer is crucial for reinstalling the USB controllers, so it’s not recommended to skip this step.
Is it safe to uninstall USB controllers?
Yes, it’s safe to uninstall USB controllers as Windows will automatically reinstall them upon restarting your computer.
Do I need any special tools to reset my USB ports?
No special tools are required. Everything you need is built into Windows 11.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Uninstall each USB controller.
- Restart your computer.
- Check your USB ports.
Conclusion
Resetting USB ports on Windows 11 can seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s really just a matter of following a few straightforward steps. By uninstalling and reinstalling the USB controllers, you give your computer a chance to fix any software glitches that might be causing issues. This process is entirely safe and doesn’t affect your data, so it’s a great first step if you’re having trouble with your USB devices.
Remember, technology isn’t always perfect, but with a little troubleshooting, you can often fix these problems yourself. If resetting the USB ports doesn’t work, don’t panic. There are always other steps you can take or professionals you can consult. Happy troubleshooting!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.