You are probably here seeking for a solution for your “Cannot install this hardware” error message during Installation. In this case let me use an HP product as an example, don’t get me wrong this particular issue also occurs on other USB devices. To be honest with you, this particular problem here has many probable causes and therefore different solutions. However, I can safely say that this is a driver issue on your computer’s operation system. If you have another computer you may want to install the device on that other computer first so as to isolate the possibilities of a hardware problem on this issue. If you don’t have one, it’s ok we can continue now….
As you may know Windows has a built in service called plug and play that automatically loads your products driver every time you plug the USB cable in. However in this case, while the plug and play serice is installing your device the driver is not fully installed, hence generating a “Cannot install this hardware” error message. Now, the question is why did it not install when ideally it should?
Probable Causes and Solutions:
- It is also possible that you have out dated USB chipsett drivers installed on your system. It is important to have the latest ones so as to avoid the possible problems that are still present with old drivers. To update all your drivers you may use RadarSync and update your Drivers. It is a freeware and is very effective in updating all your driver. You will be surprised when you see how unhealthy your system is after using RadarSync.
- It is possible that an important port is missing in your operating system. For example on HP printer’s we should be using Virtual USB Ports or Dot4 USB ports. Now, it is possible that upon connecting the USB, Windows could not load that port and therefore could not continue to install the Hardware. Solution: Make sure that you have the latest service pack installed in your windows if it does not resolve the issue you may completely uninstall and reinstall your operating system.
Personal recommendations:
- I would recommend you to completely reinstall your windows operating system. Make sure you are using an original/genuine copy of Windows. Also make sure that you update it when prompted. You Must install all updates before installing this printer. It should fix this issue. Remember to backup important data, this includes your files and drivers i repeat “drivers” first before you proceed or you will lose them forever.! drivers include your audio, video, network drivers etc… i recommend you use drivermax to back up all your drivers first. It’s free all you need is an email.
Disclaimer:
- Do not proceed if you have insufficient technical knowledge. It would be best to the steps if you have someone knowledgeable to help you.
Well this will be it for now, please let me know how it went! Good luck!