Fix Code 1: Device Not Configured Correctly in Windows 10

If you see “Code 1 – This device is not configured correctly” in Windows 10 Device Manager, the device driver is missing, corrupted, or incompatible. The fix usually involves updating, reinstalling, or rolling back the driver, or using the built-in hardware troubleshooter. Below is a step-by-step guide to resolve it, plus background on why it happens and how to prevent it.

What Does “Code 1” Mean in Device Manager?

Device Manager assigns error codes to hardware that fails to start or initialize. Code 1 specifically means Windows cannot load the driver for that device, often because the driver is not installed, is outdated, or conflicts with another piece of software. The full message reads: “This device is not configured correctly. (Code 1).”

This error appears on any hardware category—network adapters, sound cards, USB controllers, graphics cards, and more. It is not a sign of physical damage; it is a software configuration problem.

Why Does Code 1 Happen?

Common triggers include:

• Driver corruption after a Windows update or power failure
• Incompatible driver installed from a generic or wrong source
• Outdated driver that does not support the current Windows 10 version
• Registry issues from uninstalled or partially removed devices
• Resource conflicts when two devices try to use the same IRQ or memory range
• Device disabled in BIOS/UEFI, or a hardware switch turned off

Sometimes the error appears after a Windows feature update, because the old driver is not compatible with the new kernel. In other cases, a third-party driver cleaner or antivirus removes a needed file.

How to Fix Code 1 – Step by Step

Try these methods in order. Most users resolve the issue with the first or second step.

1. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
2. Select Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.
3. Follow the prompts. It may detect and fix driver problems automatically.

2. Uninstall and Reinstall the Driver

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Right-click the device with the yellow exclamation mark and choose Uninstall device.
3. Check the box Delete the driver software for this device if available.
4. Restart your PC. Windows will attempt to reinstall the correct driver automatically.

3. Update the Driver Manually

1. In Device Manager, right-click the device and choose Update driver.
2. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
3. If Windows finds nothing, go to the manufacturer’s website, download the latest driver for your exact model and Windows 10 version, and run the installer.

4. Roll Back the Driver

If the error started right after a driver update, roll back:

1. Right-click the device > Properties > Driver tab.
2. Click Roll Back Driver if the button is enabled.
3. Restart and check if the error is gone.

5. Use System Restore

If none of the above works, restore Windows to a point before the error appeared. Search for “Create a restore point,” open the System Protection tab, and click System Restore. Choose a restore point and follow the prompts.

What If the Error Persists?

If the driver reinstall does not clear Code 1, try these advanced steps:

• Check the device’s connection – reseat internal cards or unplug/replug USB devices.
• Disable and re-enable the device in Device Manager (right-click > Disable, then Enable).
• Update the chipset drivers from your motherboard or laptop manufacturer.
• Run the System File Checker – open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow.
• Use DISM – in the same Command Prompt, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
• Check for Windows updates – some cumulative updates fix driver compatibility issues.

If the device is a legacy or “unknown device,” you may need to manually point Windows to the correct INF file. Download the driver package, extract it, then in Device Manager choose “Browse my computer for drivers” and select the folder.

How to Avoid Code 1 in the Future

Prevention is simpler than troubleshooting:

• Always download drivers from the manufacturer’s official website, not from third-party “driver updater” tools.
• Create a system restore point before installing new drivers or major Windows updates.
• Do not use the same driver installer for a different Windows version (e.g., Windows 8 driver on Windows 10).
• Keep Windows Update enabled so it can install certified driver updates automatically.
• If you use a driver cleaner, back up the current driver first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Code 1 a sign of hardware failure?

No. Code 1 is a driver configuration error, not a hardware failure. If the device itself were broken, you would typically see Code 43 or the device would not appear at all. After fixing the driver, the device usually works normally.

Why does Code 1 appear after a Windows update?

Windows updates can replace or disable drivers that are not fully compatible with the new system files. The old driver may be removed, leaving the device without a working driver. Reinstalling the latest manufacturer driver usually resolves it.

Can I ignore Code 1 if the device seems to work?

Sometimes the device still functions despite the error, but it may be running with limited features or performance. It is best to fix it because the error can cause crashes or prevent the device from waking from sleep.

Will uninstalling the device delete my files?

No. Uninstalling a device in Device Manager only removes the driver and device entry. Your personal files and data are unaffected.

What if the device is a USB device and the error persists after reconnecting?

Try a different USB port, preferably a USB 2.0 port if available. Also check if the device has its own power switch or requires a specific driver from the manufacturer. If it is an external drive, try it on another PC to rule out a physical issue.

Should I use a third-party driver updater?

Generally, no. These tools often install generic or incorrect drivers, which can cause Code 1 and other errors. Stick to Windows Update and the manufacturer’s website for the most reliable results.

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