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Devices & drivers · scoped error record
Code 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.

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

What it means in this context

Microsoft says Code 43 occurs when one of the drivers controlling a device notifies Windows that the device failed. This is deliberately broader than “bad driver”: the underlying device or its firmware can also be involved.

Start here
  1. Confirm Code 43 in Device status.
  2. Power-cycle or reconnect an external device once.
  3. Check current Windows and device-driver updates.
  4. Note whether the error follows the same physical device across ports or systems.
1

Reinstall the affected device driver and retest hardware

Medium risk

Why: Microsoft recommends reinstalling the device driver and consulting hardware documentation/manufacturer guidance when Code 43 persists.

  1. Use Device Manager to uninstall/reinstall the affected device as appropriate.
  2. Restart or scan for hardware changes.
  3. Install the correct vendor driver if required.
  4. If Code 43 returns, follow the hardware manufacturer’s diagnostic path.
Scope boundary

When not to use this record

If the same physical device reports Code 43 on another known-good system, Windows-only troubleshooting is no longer the strongest hypothesis.

If it persists

Use vendor diagnostics, firmware guidance or hardware support when a clean driver path does not clear Code 43.

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 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.

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 45 — Device Manager Code 45: hardware is not connected

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