Windows 10 Device Manager Code 43: When Windows Stops a Device That Reported Problems

A USB device, graphics card, or Bluetooth adapter stops working, and Device Manager shows “Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems. (Code 43).” When Windows 10 Device Manager Code 43 appears, the device’s driver told Windows that something went wrong, so slot88 Windows shut it down to protect the system.

Code 43 is a general error. It means the device or its driver reported a failure, but not exactly what failed. The cause can be as simple as a temporary glitch, or as serious as a failing cable, port, or piece of hardware.

USB devices and graphics cards are the most common examples. For a USB device, Code 43 often follows a power problem. For a graphics card, it can follow a driver crash or overheating.

Starting with the easy fixes saves time before suspecting hardware.

What Might Be Causing It

Code 43 has these common causes:

• A temporary glitch in the device or its driver.
• A damaged, outdated, or mismatched driver.
• Not enough power from a USB port or hub.
• A faulty cable, port, or failing device.

Graphics cards that report Code 43 after a driver update often recover with a clean reinstall of the driver.

The exact device matters. Code 43 on a USB flash drive or phone points towards power or the cable, while Code 43 on a graphics card points towards drivers, overheating, or the card itself. Note which device shows it before trying fixes.

First Steps to Try

Clear temporary faults.

1. Shut the PC down fully, unplug it for a minute, then start it again.
2. For USB devices, unplug them and connect them to a different port, ideally on the back of a desktop.
3. Avoid unpowered USB hubs and try a different cable.
4. In Device Manager, right-click the device and choose Disable device, then Enable device.
5. Test the device on another computer.

If the device fails on another PC too, it is likely faulty.

If the Problem Continues

Reinstall the driver and adjust power settings.

1. Right-click the device in Device Manager and choose Uninstall device, ticking the option to delete the driver.
2. Restart and let Windows reinstall it, or install the manufacturer’s driver.
3. For USB devices, open Power Options > Change plan settings > Change advanced power settings and disable USB selective suspend.
4. For graphics cards, remove the driver with Display Driver Uninstaller in Safe Mode and reinstall the latest version.
5. Update the BIOS and chipset drivers from the PC or motherboard maker.

Check graphics card temperatures and seating if Code 43 returns after a clean driver install.

Protect Your Data First

If a USB drive shows Code 43, avoid formatting it. Try another PC first and copy important files off as soon as it is readable.

The Bottom Line

Code 43 means a device reported a problem and Windows stopped it. Power cycle the PC, change ports and cables, reinstall drivers, and test on another PC to rule out hardware failure.