How to use USB device for file transfer

Karlis Atrens 0 Reputation points
2026-08-31T07:42:47.1566667+00:00

I have connected a USB device to my computer to transfer files to it, but my computer recognises it for charging only. What can I do to make my computer use the USB device for file transfer?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Devices and drivers
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  1. Senthil kumar 2,585 Reputation points
    2026-08-31T08:33:31.7166667+00:00

    Hi @Karlis Atrens

    First check your USB is latest one and are you plugged in properly in pc. suppose you have 2.0 USB not supported in PC's 3.0 USB's so check first that one. suppose all are latest then move to below steps.

    1. Press Win + X → Disk Management
    2. Look for your USB device
    3. If it shows No drive letter, right‑click → Change Drive Letter
    4. If it shows RAW, the file system is corrupted

    Thanks.

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  2. Carl-L 23,290 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-09-02T06:59:53.2566667+00:00

    Hello Karlis Atrens,

    Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Before we proceed, may I know what is the device that you are trying to connect to transferring file? And may I know if the AI assistant suggestion helps you?

    I'm waiting for your reply.

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  3. AI answer

    2026-08-31T07:43:04.0633333+00:00

    If the device is being detected as charging only, switch the USB connection mode to File Transfer or MTP on the connected device.

    Steps:

    1. Connect the device to the PC with the USB cable.
    2. Unlock the device.
    3. Open the device’s notifications panel.
    4. Tap the USB notification, such as Charging this device via USB.
    5. Change the mode to File Transfer or Media Transfer Protocol (MTP).

    If file transfer still does not work:

    1. Try a different USB cable. Some cables support charging only and do not support data transfer.
    2. Try a different USB port on the computer.
    3. Avoid using a USB hub if possible, and connect the device directly to the PC.
    4. In Windows, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > AutoPlay and check what happens when the device is connected.

    If the goal is to move files between Windows PCs, an external USB drive can also be used:

    1. Connect the external storage device.
    2. Open File Explorer.
    3. Select the files or folders.
    4. Right-click and choose Show more options > Send to.
    5. Select the external storage device.
    6. After copying finishes, use Eject before disconnecting the drive to avoid file loss or corruption.
    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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