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FixesError codesComponentsCommandsWindows updatesWindows 11
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Devices & drivers · scoped error record
Code 28

Device Manager Code 28: drivers are not installed

Code 28 means Windows does not have the driver installed for the device; reinstall the device driver rather than applying unrelated fixes.

Applies to: Windows 11 Device ManagerReviewed: 2026-09-17

What it means in this context

Microsoft describes Code 28 as “The drivers for this device are not installed.” The scope is therefore driver installation for that specific device, not a general Windows corruption diagnosis.

Start here
  1. Confirm Code 28 in the device’s Properties > Device status.
  2. Identify the exact hardware model.
  3. Check Windows Update, including optional driver updates.
  4. Prefer the PC/device manufacturer’s driver when Windows cannot supply one.
1

Reinstall the device driver

Medium risk

Why: Microsoft’s recommended resolution for Code 28 is to reinstall the device driver manually.

  1. In Device Manager, uninstall the affected device as appropriate.
  2. Use Action > Scan for hardware changes or restart Windows.
  3. Provide the correct vendor driver if Windows asks for a driver path.
  4. Confirm the device no longer reports Code 28.
Scope boundary

When not to use this record

If the hardware is unsupported on the installed Windows version or the vendor has no compatible driver, repeated reinstall attempts will not create compatibility.

If it persists

Verify the device’s supported operating systems and hardware IDs before trying alternate drivers.

Evidence

Reviewed source

Related authority records

Continue with the same failing system

These links share the same component or repair context; they are not generic keyword suggestions.

ErrorCode 10 — Device Manager Code 10: “This device cannot start”

Code 10 means the device could not start; Microsoft’s primary resolution begins with the device driver.

ErrorCode 12 — Device Manager Code 12: Windows cannot find enough free resources for the device

Code 12 is a resource-allocation problem; confirm the exact device before changing other hardware or firmware settings.

ErrorCode 22 — Device Manager Code 22: the device is disabled

Code 22 means Windows sees the device but it has been disabled; enable the device before reinstalling drivers.

ErrorCode 31 — Device Manager Code 31: Windows cannot load the required drivers

Code 31 is a device-driver loading failure; keep the troubleshooting scoped to the affected hardware.

ErrorCode 43 — Device Manager Code 43: Windows stopped a device after it reported a problem

Code 43 means a driver controlling the device told Windows that the device failed in some way; driver and hardware context both matter.

ErrorCode 45 — Device Manager Code 45: hardware is not connected

Code 45 is a connection/presence state; reconnect or power the hardware before changing drivers.