Question
Issue: How to fix USB error code 38 in Windows?
Hello. When I tried to load onto my USB I received this message – “Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware because a previous instance of the device driver is still in memory. (Code 38)” Can I fix it?
Solved Answer
Windows is one of the most popular operating systems in the world. People love it for customization abilities, user-friendly interface, and built-in troubleshooters. People can also connect a variety of devices to their Windows computer via USB connection, like keyboards, mouses, hard drives, and so on. Unfortunately, sometimes users fail to open their USBs and receive an error code 38. The full message states:
Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware because a previous instance of the device driver is still in memory. (Code 38)
The driver could not be loaded because a previous version of the driver is still in memory.
The Windows Code 38 USB error occurs when Windows is unable to load a respective device driver.[1] It can be caused due to a variety of reasons, such as software-related issues, registry[2] issues, or outdated/missing drivers. In this guide, we will show you how to use the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter, and how to reinstall device drivers.
You can also use a maintenance tool like FortectMac Washing Machine X9 that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[3] corrupted files, registry issues, etc. It is a very powerful software that can be helpful in keeping the system running smoothly. Otherwise, you can follow the steps below to fix USB error code 38 in Windows.
Solution 1. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
- Right-click on Start button, select Control Panel
- Change the view by option on the top right to Large icons
- Click on Troubleshooting and click on the view all option on the left panel
- Run the Hardware and devices troubleshooter
Solution 2. Uninstall the USB Controllers
- Right-click on Start and select Device Manager
- Double-click to expand Universal Serial Bus controllers, right-click on the Host Controller, click Uninstall and OK
- Restart the system and Windows will reinstall all USB controllers automatically
- You can also use a tool like DriverFix that can look for the best drivers automatically
- If that did not fix the problem, go to the Device Manager again, Universal Serial Bus controllers
- Look for the USB Root Hub with an orange error symbol, right-click it and then click Uninstall
- Restart your computer with the USB still connected
Solution 3. Flush the Memory
- Press and hold the Shift key down while clicking on Shut Down
You might also be interested in:
Repair your Errors automatically
ugetfix.com team is trying to do its best to help users find the best solutions for eliminating their errors. If you don't want to struggle with manual repair techniques, please use the automatic software. All recommended products have been tested and approved by our professionals. Tools that you can use to fix your error are listed bellow:
Protect your online privacy with a VPN client
A VPN is crucial when it comes to user privacy. Online trackers such as cookies can not only be used by social media platforms and other websites but also your Internet Service Provider and the government. Even if you apply the most secure settings via your web browser, you can still be tracked via apps that are connected to the internet. Besides, privacy-focused browsers like Tor is are not an optimal choice due to diminished connection speeds. The best solution for your ultimate privacy is Private Internet Access – be anonymous and secure online.
Data recovery tools can prevent permanent file loss
Data recovery software is one of the options that could help you recover your files. Once you delete a file, it does not vanish into thin air – it remains on your system as long as no new data is written on top of it. Data Recovery Pro is recovery software that searchers for working copies of deleted files within your hard drive. By using the tool, you can prevent loss of valuable documents, school work, personal pictures, and other crucial files.
- ^ Device driver. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
- ^ Tim Fisher. What Is the Windows Registry?. Lifewire. Software and Apps.
- ^ Chris Hoffman. Everything You Need To Know About the Blue Screen of Death. Howtogeek. Technology Magazine.