Xbox controller driver error. Code 10 device cannot start

Question

Xbox one controller that used to work ages ago wired to pc keeps flashing and won't connect.

Xbox one peripherals category in device manager wasn't there so I installed the driver for it and now the box one controller driver in it is coming back with code 10 device cannot start.

Tried uninstalling it as well as all the usb drivers, restart computer with controller plugged in and blinking and w10 auto installs the usb drivers again but still no luck with starting the controller driver.

W10 had an available system update I tried just in case but hasn't helped.

Looked on another pc and the xbox controller drivers are the same version as mine but show no error and another xbox controller that works on that pc doesn't work on mine. I haven't been able to test both controllers on the 2nd computer but I don't think that would help the case.

Any feedback/help greatly appreciated.

Oh and pc doesn'thave Bluetooth, only wired is possible

Answer 1

Dear E11iot!

Welcome to the Microsoft Community!

It can be frustrating to encounter an Xbox controller that won't turn on on your PC. Based on the information you provided, here are some of my personal recommendations for using an Xbox controller:

Download and use the Xbox Accessories app

Download the Xbox Accessories app:

Open the Microsoft Store and search for "Xbox Accessories" or "Xbox Wireless Adapter" app.

Download and install the app.

Update the driver using the app:

Open the Xbox Accessories app.

Connect the Xbox controller to your PC via USB.

The app should automatically recognize the controller and try to update the driver.

For specific steps, refer to the official Xbox documentation:

Update your Xbox Wireless Controller | Xbox Support

Try other solutions

Check the USB port:

Try plugging the controller into a different USB port, sometimes the port can be damaged or not providing enough power.

If the above steps don't solve the problem, try the following:

Reset the controller:

Press and hold the "Xbox" button on the Xbox controller for about 10 seconds until the controller turns off. Then reconnect to the PC.

Disable and re-enable the hardware:

In Device Manager, find the Xbox controller and right-click it.

Select "Disable device", then right-click again and select "Enable device".

Use a USB Bluetooth adapter:

If none of the above work, you may want to consider purchasing a USB Bluetooth adapter so that you can connect your Xbox controller wirelessly even if your computer doesn't have built-in Bluetooth.

I hope these suggestions help you resolve your issue. If you have any other questions or need further assistance, please let me know.

Best regards,

Yang.Z - MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist