8 Best Ways to Fix Driver Error Code 43 on Windows 10

Windows users know that ‘error code 43’ is associated with Device Manager, a troubleshooting tool we often recommend to update/reinstall drivers to fix common computer problems. Since Device Manager is a hardware manager tool, the error code basically says something is wrong with one of your hardware devices. This can be an accessory that you connect internally or externally.

The first thing you need to do is, Keyboard or mouse, external HDD/SSD, display etc. is to identify the device that is not working properly, such as This will be helpful in troubleshooting steps as some will need this information. Usually, launching an application or performing a task will trigger the corresponding hardware device to help identify it. For example, if starting a game triggers the ‘error code 43’ message on your screen, you should start with the graphics card.

Let’s start.

1. Incompatible Hardware

Sometimes connecting an incompatible accessory or peripheral can trigger such a response. Check if the device is working properly. You can also check if it meets the specifications and device requirements. Some hardware devices come with an installation CD containing the necessary driver files. Alternatively, you can find these files on the manufacturer’s website.

2. Reboot

I recommend restarting your Windows computer once before moving on to more complex solutions that will take much more time. It can fix the ‘error code 43’ and fix a few common problems.

3. Reconnect Hardware Device

Another way is to disconnect the device and then reconnect it. Have you connected anything via the USB port lately?

Disconnect and reconnect the hardware device to see if that fixes the problem. This step is suitable for externally connected devices, not those that require your computer to be disassembled. At this point, you can also try and change the cable you use to connect the hardware device externally. A faulty cable can cause such errors.

4. Troubleshooting

Windows 10 comes with a troubleshooting tool for many services. Some cater to hardware devices like printers, Bluetooth, audio and others. You can choose the correct troubleshooting option based on the hardware device that says ‘error code 43’ on your screen.

Stage 1: Press Windows+I to open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.

Step 2: You should now see a list of troubleshooting options. Choose one based on your needs and follow the onscreen instructions to see if it helps.

5. Reinstall, Update, Rollback Drivers

Sometimes you need to reinstall, update and roll back drivers to keep the software and Windows system working normally. You can do this from the Device Manager itself. First, you need to find out which hardware component is facing this issue. For example, let’s say graphics card.

Stage 1: Search for and open Device Manager from the start menu. You can also find this option in a shortcut menu that pops up when you press Windows key+X.

Step 2: You can find the video card under Display adapters. You should see the make and model of the card listed here. Right-click on it to access the options menu.

You will find more details on what drivers are, why they are needed, and how to troubleshoot them in the link shared above. Go through the same.

6. Reactivate Device

We will visit Device Manager again to enable/disable the device. Again, you need to know which hardware device is not working properly before proceeding with this method.

Stage 1: Open Device Manager from the Start menu as you did before.

Step 2: Suppose the Bluetooth is not working as it should. Therefore, we will expand the Bluetooth menu and right-click on the Bluetooth device name to select Properties. Under the Driver tab, you should see Enable Device.

If you’re viewing Disable Device instead, it’s already enabled. You can disable it and enable it again to check if it fixes the ‘error code 43’ in Windows.

7. Different Computer

Do you have access to another computer or could it belong to a friend? External plug-and-play devices are easy to test on a different computer. This will rule out the possibility of a problem with the device itself or the USB port it is connected to.

8. NVIDIA Applications Issue

Gamers agree that NVIDIA applications often cause bugs. We recommend uninstalling the following three NVIDIA applications using Revo Uninstaller to ensure that no traces are left behind.

• NVIDIA GeForce Experience
• NVIDIA PhysX System
• NVIDIA Graphics Driver

Restart your computer and reinstall the NVIDIA graphics driver and other software. You can download the latest versions from the links above.

Code is Law

‘Error code 43’ is a fairly common error that many Windows users encounter while working with all kinds of hardware devices. They are also easy to fix and you can always replace or replace the device if there is an option available to you.

If you were able to find a different solution to the problem, share it in the comments section below.

Next: Wondering how to use tablet mode to the fullest in Windows 10? Get the answer here where you discover tablet mode tips, tricks and shortcuts.