How to Resolve the "This Device is Disabled" Code 22 Error in Windows 10/11

Are you encountering the frustrating "This Device is Disabled" Code 22 error while trying to use a device on your Windows 10/11 PC? Don't worry, we've got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through 10 effective methods to resolve this error and get your hardware working again.

1. Unplug and Replug the Device

If you have recently connected a new device to your PC, a simple unplug and replug might do the trick. For devices that connect via USB, unplug the device from your PC, wait a few seconds, and then reconnect it.

Check if the device appears in the Device Manager without the error code. If the device is installed internally, you will need to open your desktop PC and perform the same procedure.

2. Enable the Device in Device Manager

If the device has been accidentally disabled, you can easily enable it in the Device Manager. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Press the Windows + S keyboard shortcut to open the search bar and type Device Manager.

2. Select the Device Manager from the search results.
3. Right-click on the device that is experiencing the Code 22 error.
4. Click on Enable Device.

If enabling the device doesn't resolve the issue, it might be due to outdated drivers. You can update the drivers using the Device Manager or Windows Update.

3. Update the Device Driver

Outdated drivers can often cause the "This Device is Disabled" Code 22 error. To update the device driver, follow these steps:

1. Open the Device Manager using the Windows + S keyboard shortcut.
2. Right-click on the device with the Code 22 error.
3. Select Update driver.

4. Choose the Search automatically for drivers option.

5. Windows will search for updated drivers using Windows Update.

6. If a new driver is found, it will be automatically downloaded and installed.

Updating the driver can often resolve the Code 22 error and ensure proper functionality of the device.

4. Restart Your PC

Restarting your PC can sometimes resolve various hardware-related issues, including the Code 22 error. Click on the Start menu, select the power button, and choose the Restart option. Alternatively, you can turn off your PC and then turn it back on.

5. Completely Uninstall the Device Driver

If the above methods haven't worked, you can try completely uninstalling the device driver. Here's how:

1. Open the Device Manager on your Windows 10/11 PC.
2. Right-click on the device showing the Code 22 error.
3. Select Uninstall device.
4. Tick the option to remove the drivers completely for that device.

Completely uninstalling the device driver can help resolve any conflicts or issues that may be causing the Code 22 error.

6. Install an Older Version of the Driver

In some cases, an updated driver may be the cause of the Code 22 error. Rolling back to an older version of the driver can help resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the manufacturer's website and find the list of drivers for your hardware.
2. Download an older version of the driver that predates the issue.
3. Uninstall the current device driver using the steps mentioned earlier.
4. Open the downloaded driver package and install the old driver.

If the Code 22 error occurred after updating the GPU driver, make sure to select the "Perform a clean installation" option during the installation process.

7. Perform a System Restore

If the Code 22 error started occurring recently and your device was working fine before, performing a system restore can help resolve the issue. Here's how:

1. Use the Windows + S keyboard shortcut to open the search bar and type restore.
2. Select Create a restore point from the search results.

3. Click on System Restore and then click Next.
4. Choose a restore point from a time when the device was functioning properly.
5. Confirm the restore point selection and click Finish.

Windows will perform the system restore, which may take some time. This should resolve the Code 22 error if it was not occurring at the time the restore point was created.

If you don't have any system restore points, you may need to reset your PC by either factory resetting it or performing a clean install of Windows 11 using the Media Creation tool or a USB drive.

8. Update Your BIOS/UEFI

Updating your BIOS/UEFI to the latest version can sometimes fix compatibility issues and improve hardware performance. Here's how to update your BIOS/UEFI:

1. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions to find the recommended method for updating your BIOS/UEFI.
2. Visit the manufacturer's website and download the latest BIOS/UEFI update for your specific hardware.
3. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to update your BIOS/UEFI.

Updating your BIOS/UEFI is optional in most cases, but it can be beneficial in certain situations, as it may contain necessary security patches, firmware updates, and hotfixes for your hardware.

9. Reset BIOS Settings

If recent changes to the BIOS settings have caused the Code 22 error, resetting the BIOS settings to default can help resolve the issue. Here's how:

1. Restart your PC and enter the BIOS/UEFI by pressing the designated key (usually F2 or Delete) during boot-up.
2. Navigate to the last menu in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
3. Look for the option to Reset BIOS Settings to Default or a similar option.
4. Select the option and confirm the reset.

After resetting the BIOS settings, your PC will restart, and the Code 22 error should be resolved. Refer to your PC's official instructions manual for specific guidance on resetting the BIOS if needed.

10. Replace the Device

If none of the above methods work, it is possible that the device itself is faulty. In such cases, you may need to replace the device with a new one. If your device is still under warranty, you can submit it for service or replacement. Once you receive the new device, the Code 22 error should no longer occur.

Conclusion

Encountering the "This Device is Disabled" Code 22 error can be frustrating, but with the methods outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the issue and get your hardware working again. Start by unplugging and replugging the device, enabling it in the Device Manager, and updating the device driver. If these steps don't work, try restarting your PC, uninstalling the device driver, or installing an older version of the driver. Performing a system restore, updating your BIOS/UEFI, resetting the BIOS settings, or replacing the device are also viable options. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can overcome the Code 22 error and ensure the smooth operation of your devices on your Windows 10/11 PC.

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