Fix Device Manager Error Code 45

Device Manager error code 45 indicates that Windows has detected a hardware device but cannot start it because the device is not currently connected to the computer. This error typically appears when a device was previously installed but is now disconnected, or when a device’s driver is stuck in a state that Windows cannot resolve. The fix usually involves reconnecting the device, updating the driver, or using the Device Manager’s scan for hardware changes feature. Below is a step-by-step guide to resolve error code 45.

What You’ll Need

Administrator access to the Windows computer
The physical device (if it is external, such as a USB device)
Internet connection (for driver updates, if needed)
Optional: Device manufacturer’s driver installation disc or downloaded driver files

Step-by-Step

Open Device Manager: Press Windows + X and select Device Manager from the menu. Alternatively, search for “Device Manager” in the Start menu and click the result.
Locate the device with error 45: Look for a device with a yellow exclamation mark. Expand categories like “Universal Serial Bus controllers” or “Other devices” to find it. Right-click the device and select Properties. On the General tab, you should see “Currently, this hardware device is not connected to the computer. (Code 45)”.
Reconnect the device: If the device is external (USB, external drive, printer, etc.), physically unplug it and plug it back in. For internal devices (like a PCIe card), ensure the connection is secure by reseating it in its slot (only if you are comfortable opening the computer case).
Scan for hardware changes: After reconnecting, go to the Action menu in Device Manager and select Scan for hardware changes. Windows will re-detect the device and attempt to load the driver. Check if the error clears.
Restart the computer: If the error persists, restart your PC. This clears temporary driver states and can resolve the issue.
Update the driver: Right-click the device and select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers. If Windows doesn’t find a new driver, try Browse my computer for drivers and select the driver from a list if you have one. Alternatively, visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver for your device model and install it.
Uninstall and reinstall the device: Right-click the device and select Uninstall device. Check the box “Delete the driver software for this device” if you want to remove the driver completely. Then, restart your computer. Windows will re-detect the device and install the driver automatically. If not, use Scan for hardware changes.
Check for Windows updates: Go to Settings > Update & Security (or Windows Update in Windows 11) and click Check for updates. Install any pending updates, especially driver updates, and restart.
Use the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter: In Windows 10/11, go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters (or Additional troubleshooters). Select Hardware and Devices and run it. Follow the prompts.
Check the device connection for internal devices: For internal components (like a graphics card or sound card), power off the PC, unplug it, open the case, and reseat the card in its slot. Ensure any power cables are connected. Then power on and check Device Manager.

Common Mistakes

Assuming the device is broken: Error 45 often appears when a device is simply not connected. Always check physical connections first.
Not restarting after uninstalling: Skipping the restart after uninstalling the device may prevent Windows from re-detecting it properly.
Using an outdated driver from a third-party site: Always download drivers from the official manufacturer’s website to avoid compatibility issues.
Forgetting to check USB ports: If the device is USB, try a different port, especially if the current one is on a front panel or a hub that may not provide enough power.

Tips

If the device is a USB device, use a port directly on the motherboard (rear of the PC) rather than a hub.
For laptops, check if the device has a hardware switch or function key (like Fn+F2) to enable/disable the device.
Keep your drivers up to date by checking the manufacturer’s website periodically or using Windows Update.
If you have a docking station, ensure it is properly connected and powered.

Troubleshooting

If the above steps do not resolve error code 45, try the following:

Check the device on another computer: Connect the device to a different PC to see if it works. If it doesn’t, the device itself may be faulty.
Disable and re-enable the device: In Device Manager, right-click the device and select Disable device. Wait a few seconds, then right-click and select Enable device.
Use System Restore: If the error started recently, restore your system to a point before the issue occurred. Search for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu, open the System Properties, click System Restore, and follow the wizard.
Check the Windows Event Viewer: Look for detailed error messages related to the device. Open Event Viewer (search for it), go to Windows Logs > System, and look for errors with a timestamp matching the issue.
If all else fails, consider a clean driver removal: Use a tool like Display Driver Uninstaller (for graphics cards) or manually delete the device from the registry (advanced users only). This is risky and should be done with caution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code 45 mean?

Error code 45 means Windows has detected that a hardware device is not connected to the computer, even though its driver is installed. It is a common message for devices that are unplugged or have a connection issue.

Can error code 45 be caused by a faulty driver?

Yes, a corrupted or incompatible driver can cause error 45. Updating or reinstalling the driver often resolves it.

Will error code 45 go away on its own?

Sometimes, if the device is reconnected properly, the error may clear after a scan for hardware changes. However, if the driver is problematic, you may need to update or reinstall it.

Is error code 45 serious?

No, it is not serious. It simply indicates that the device is not currently connected. It does not harm your system, but it does prevent the device from working.

Why does error code 45 appear for internal devices?

For internal devices, it usually means the device is not seated properly in its slot, or there is a loose connection. Reseating the device can fix it.

Can I ignore error code 45?

You can ignore it if you don’t need the device. However, if you want to use the device, you must resolve the connection or driver issue.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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