The Error Code 43 error is one of those very generic error codes that Windows will display. It basically tells you that one of your hardware devices is not working and needs attention. In my experience, there are a number of troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the Windows code 43 issue
The Windows error code will almost always display in the following way:
“Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems”
Windows code 43 is often exclusive to the device manager. If you see the Error Code 43 error elsewhere in Windows, chances are it’s a system error code, which you should not troubleshoot as a Device Manager problem.
How to Fix a Windows Code 43 Error
Follow these steps, in order, to resolve a Windows Code 43 error. Because this message is generic, standard troubleshooting steps come first.
Step 1
Reboot the machine
Have you tried turning it off and back on again? Restarting your computer can fix many issues and for many good reasons. If you haven’t done so already there is always the chance that the Windows Code 43 you’re seeing on a device was caused by some temporary problem with the hardware and a reboot is all that is required.
Step 2
Did you install a device or make a change in Device Manager just before the Code 43 error appeared? If so, it’s possible that the change you made caused the Code 43 error. Undo the change if you can, restart your PC, and then check again for the Code 43 error. Depending on the changes you made, some solutions to the Windows hardware issue might include:
- Removing or re-configuring the newly installed device
- Rolling back the driver to a version prior to your update
- Using System Restore to undo recent Device Manager-related changes
- Disable the device and then re-enable it. This might sound like a very simple fix, and that’s because it is. Essentially does what a reboot will do in the first step.
- Reinstall the hardware drivers. Uninstalling and then reinstalling the drivers for the device is a possible solution to a Windows Code 43 error.
- Update the drivers for the device. It’s also possible that installing the latest drivers for the device could correct the Windows Code 43 error.
Step 3
Replace the Connection to the hardware device
- Replace the cable that connects the device to the computer, assuming it has one. This potential fix for a Windows Code 43 error is most often useful if you’re seeing the error on an external device
- Purchase a powered USB hub if the Windows Code 43 error is showing up for a USB device. Some USB devices need more power than the USB ports that are built into your computer can provide. Plugging those devices into a powered USB hub solves that challenge.
Step 4
Replace the hardware.
A problem with the device itself might be causing the Error Code 43 error, in which case replacing the hardware is your next logical step. In most cases, this is the solution to a Code 43 error but try the easier, and free, software-based troubleshooting ideas first. We recommend doing either before you replace the hardware, but you may have to give them a try if you’re out of other options.
Step 5
Make sure that your Windows 10 is up to date
Microsoft is constantly fixing issues with new updates, and for the most part, Windows 10 installs the missing updates automatically when released or required. There is a good chance that an update will resolve the Error code 43 issue. You can check for updates manually by doing the following:
- Click Start and select “Settings -> Update & Security.”
- Click “Check for updates.” Windows will check for available updates and download and install them once you restart your computer.
Step 6
Run DISM and System File Checker
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Run command : sfc /scannow
It will run the System File Checker.
Run Command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Step 7
Update the Driver
If you are facing a hardware problem it could be the driver software and you can try installing the latest drivers. Installing the new drivers for the device will likely fix the Windows code 43 error.
Step 1: Go to “Search,” type Device Manager, and select “Device Manager.”
Step 2: Find the troubled device, right-click and select “Properties.”
Step 3: Click “Driver” and select “Update Driver.”
Step 4: At this point, you will be required to select the option “Automatically search for updated driver software.”
