USB ports not working

FHutchings 0 Reputation points
2025-12-09T09:39:58.34+00:00

I had a message stating Windows 10 is no longer being upgraded, and my computer can not facilitate windows 11.

Since receiving this message, my USB ports have stopped working, except the one for my mouse.

Please can you explain why this has happened? How am I supposed to work without being able to access my sensitive documents (which should not be placed online) on my USB?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers

3 answers

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  1. Vikki-T 8,050 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2025-12-13T10:53:38.6533333+00:00

    Dear FHutchings

    Thank you for your question and for sharing the details into Microsoft Q&A Forum. 

    I understand how important it is for you to access your sensitive documents securely, and I’m here to help. First, please check out the answers shared by AI and DaveM121 above, they contain valuable insights and practical tips that might help you further.

    The message about Windows 10 no longer receiving upgrades is informational and does not directly cause hardware issues. However, the USB problem you’re experiencing may be due to one of the following: 

    • Driver issues: USB drivers might have become corrupted or disabled after recent updates. 
    • Compatibility changes: Some updates or patches can affect older hardware. 
    • Hardware fault: If only one port works (for your mouse), the USB controller on the motherboard might be failing. 

    Here are steps you can try: 

    1. Open Device Manager and check if any USB controllers show errors or are disabled. 
    2. Uninstall and reinstall USB drivers. You can download the latest drivers from your PC manufacturer’s website. 
    3. If the issue persists, consider using a USB hub on the working port or transferring files via a secure local network as a temporary solution. 

    We hope these steps help you restore full functionality to your USB ports and regain secure access to your important documents. Wishing you a smooth experience in troubleshooting your Windows 10 device and getting back to work without interruption. 


    If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".  

    Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread. 

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  2. DaveM121 914.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-12-09T10:13:38.13+00:00

    1

    Right click your Start Button and open Device Manager.

    Please provide a screenshot of that full window.

    2

    Connect the USB drive to your PC.

    Right click your Start Button and open Disk Management.

    Expand the bottom pane so all drives and partitions are visible in that pane.

    Please provide a screenshot of that Disk management window.

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  3. AI answer

    2025-12-09T09:40:09.3233333+00:00

    There can be several reasons why your USB ports are not functioning properly after receiving the message about Windows 10 no longer being upgraded. Here are some potential causes and solutions:

    1. Driver Issues: The USB ports may not be working due to outdated or corrupted drivers. You can check for updates in Device Manager and reinstall the USB drivers if necessary.
    2. Power Management Settings: Sometimes, USB ports can be disabled due to power management settings. You can check the power settings in Device Manager and ensure that the USB selective suspend setting is disabled.
    3. BIOS Settings: The BIOS may have settings that disable USB ports. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup to check if the USB ports are enabled.
    4. Hardware Issues: There could be a hardware malfunction with the USB ports themselves. If possible, test the USB devices on another computer to rule out device issues.
    5. Windows Updates: If your system is not receiving updates, it may lack important patches that could affect USB functionality. Make sure your system is up to date with the latest updates available for Windows 10.
    6. USB Device Compatibility: Ensure that the USB devices you are trying to use are compatible with your system and are functioning properly.

    If you need to access sensitive documents on your USB, consider trying the following workarounds:

    • Use a different computer to access the USB drive and transfer the files to a secure location.
    • If you have access to a USB hub, try connecting your USB devices through the hub to see if that resolves the issue.

    If the problem persists, you may need to consult with a technician for further diagnosis and repair.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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