On connecting your USB to your computer, it will automatically appear in File Explorer. But in certain instances when your USB is not showing on your file explorer, leaving you annoyed about what to do. There might be various reasons of usb drive not showing up that you have to assess and proceed to fix the issue.
Fret not, there are some proven ways that will help you fix the issue.
In this comprehensive guide we will walk you through the ways to fix the issue. So, let’s jump to the post.
Reasons Why My USB Device not Showing up
There might be several reasons for USB drive not showing up. Here are the most common reasons your USB drive isn’t showing up on Windows or a Mac:
The driver may not inserted properly in the port.
Make sure your USB driver is on (this is rare, but some models of USB drives have a physical power switch).
Sometimes a bad USB port on the computer may be the culprit behind it.
The USB drive may be broken.
How to Troubleshoot USB Device Not Showing up
Fortunately, there are proven methods that will help you fix the issue of USB devices not being recognized so that you can access your important data. Here are some proven ways to fix it.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps
Disconnect and reconnect the USB drive: Sometimes the USB might just not be connected properly, causing the read error. In such instances, you need to disconnect the USB and reconnect, your USB may be visible to you.
Restart the computer: Some minor bugs may be resolved just by rebooting your PC or Laptop. A reboot allows your device to resolve the error itself.
Try connecting the USB drive to a different port on your computer. Moreover, your computer may have other ports you can use these ports besides the one your drive is currently plugged into. You can try using another USB port on your computer helps overcome the issue with the port. Try using the port that connects directly to the motherboard on the back of your computer.
Connecting the USB drive to another computer: You can connect your USB drive to another computer which will help you determine whether it’s an issue with the drive or your computer.
Other Ways to Fix the USB drive Not showing up issue
Check the USB Drive on Disk Management (Windows)
Press Windows + X and select Disk Management.
Look for your USB drive in the list of drives. If it shows up but is unassigned, you might need to assign a letter or format the drive.
Right-click on the drive and select Change Drive Letter and Paths to assign a letter.
If it’s not formatted, you might need to right-click and choose Format.
Update Drivers
Sometimes, your device driver may be outdated, you need to update your driver to fix the issue usb drive not showing up.
In Device Manager, right-click on the USB device and select Update Driver.
Here pick for option “search automatically” for updated driver software.
If the driver update does not work, you can visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest drivers.
Check for Hidden Devices
Follow the steps to check whether any hidden device is connected
In Device Manager, click on View and select Show Hidden Devices.
Look for any hidden USB drives under Disk Drives or Universal Serial Bus Controllers.
If you find the USB drive, try updating or uninstalling the driver.
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How to Prevent Future Occurrence?
To prevent your USB drive from not showing up, follow these best practices. Always safely eject the drive using your operating system’s “Safely Remove Hardware” option to avoid data corruption. Keep your USB drivers updated through the Device Manager to ensure compatibility with the latest system updates. Regularly scan the USB drive and your computer for malware to prevent infections that could make the drive inaccessible. Use USB drives from reputable brands, as they tend to have better durability and fewer compatibility issues.
Avoid exposing the USB drive to physical damage, moisture, or extreme temperatures by storing it in a protective case. Check for compatibility with your operating system and file system format. Periodically back up important files stored on the drive to minimize data loss risks. Finally, reformat the drive occasionally to maintain its efficiency and reduce the chances of errors. Proper care ensures reliability and longevity.
Conclusion: We have provided you with the working ways to troubleshoot the issue USB device not being recognized, try the aforementioned method. If the problem persists, you can go to the technical help support team. As USB drive not showing up can result from various issues, including hardware problems, outdated drivers, or software conflicts. By following the outlined troubleshooting steps—such as checking connections, updating drivers, and formatting the drive—you can often resolve the problem effectively. Regular maintenance and proper handling can also help prevent future issues. If all else fails, seeking professional assistance ensures your data remains secure. A proactive approach ensures a reliable and hassle-free experience with your USB devices.
Also Read: Why Global Security Certification Is Crucial for Professionals Today
