Windows Error Code 32 is a common annoyance that reads: "A driver (service) for this device has been disabled. An alternative driver may be providing this functionality." This error usually pops up in the Device Manager and can disrupt the normal functioning of your hardware devices such as printers, USB devices, or sound cards.
If you’re frustrated by this error, don’t worry! In this detailed, easy-to-follow guide, I’ll walk you through all the possible fixes step-by-step, help you understand the root causes, and get your Windows devices back in perfect working order.
What Causes Windows Error Code 32?
Before we jump into solutions, it’s helpful to know WHY Error Code 32 happens. Here are some common causes:
- Driver conflicts: Multiple drivers trying to control the same device.
- Disabled drivers: The device driver has been disabled manually or by Windows.
- Corrupted or outdated drivers: Drivers that are damaged or not compatible with your Windows version.
- Registry issues: Incorrect values related to device drivers in Windows Registry.
- System updates: Sometimes, recent Windows updates can disable drivers.
Keeping these causes in mind, let’s move on to practical solutions.
How to Fix Windows Error Code 32: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It sounds simple, but many driver issues are resolved by a clean restart.
- Save all your work.
- Close all applications.
- Click Start → Power → Restart.
- Check the Device Manager again for the error.
If the error persists, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Use Device Manager to Re-enable the Device Driver
Sometimes, a device driver may have been disabled manually or accidentally.
- Press Windows + X, then click Device Manager.
- Look for the device showing the error (will have a yellow warning icon).
- Right-click on the device and select Enable device (if available).
- If it’s already enabled, choose Disable device, wait a few seconds, and then Enable device again.
- Restart your PC.
Check if Error Code 32 is resolved.
Step 3: Update the Problematic Device Driver
Outdated or corrupted drivers often cause errors like 32.
- Open Device Manager again.
- Find the device with Error Code 32.
- Right-click → Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Windows will search and install any available updates.
- Restart your computer.
Alternatively, visit the manufacturer’s website of your device (e.g., HP, Logitech, Realtek) and download the latest drivers manually.
Step 4: Uninstall and Reinstall the Device Driver
If updating doesn’t help, reinstalling can resolve corrupted driver issues.
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click the problematic device → Uninstall device.
- Confirm any prompts.
- After uninstalling, restart your PC.
- Windows should detect the device and reinstall its driver automatically.
- If Windows does not reinstall, install the driver manually from the manufacturer’s website.
Step 5: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows includes a handy troubleshooter for hardware-related issues.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security → Troubleshoot.
- Click Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Hardware and Devices, then click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow on-screen instructions and apply recommended fixes.
- Restart your PC.
Step 6: Check the Windows Registry for Driver Entries
Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause serious issues. Follow carefully or back up the registry first.
- Press Windows + R, type
regedit, and press Enter. -
Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\
- In the right pane, find the Start key.
- The value should typically be set to:
- 0 = Boot
- 1 = System
- 2 = Automatic
- 3 = Manual
- 4 = Disabled (This causes Error 32)
- If Start is set to 4, double-click it and change the value to 3.
- Close Registry Editor and restart your PC.
Step 7: Perform a System Restore
If Error Code 32 appeared recently after changes or updates, restoring your system to an earlier point may help.
- Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and select it.
- Click System Restore.
- Follow the wizard to choose a restore point before the error appeared.
- Let Windows restore and restart.
Step 8: Check for Windows Updates
Sometimes Microsoft releases fixes for such issues.
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any updates and restart.
Final Thoughts and Tips
- Always create backups before installing new drivers or editing the registry.
- Use official sources for driver downloads to avoid malware.
- If the device is critical and none of the above steps work, contacting hardware manufacturer support could be a good option.
- Ensure your Windows OS is genuine and not corrupted.
Summary: Quick Fix Recap for Error Code 32
| Step No. | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Restart PC | Clear temporary glitches |
| 2 | Enable device in Device Manager | Re-enable disabled drivers |
| 3 | Update device driver | Fix outdated or corrupted drivers |
| 4 | Reinstall device driver | Fix corrupted or missing drivers |
| 5 | Run Hardware troubleshooter | Automatic detection & fix |
| 6 | Check and modify registry values | Fix disabled driver registry keys |
| 7 | System Restore | Revert to a previous system state |
| 8 | Windows Update | Patch system bugs and improve compatibility |
Fixing Windows Error Code 32 isn’t as scary as it sounds! With patience and the above step-by-step guide, you can have your devices up and running smoothly in no time.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might be struggling with the same issue. And if you hit any snags or have questions, feel free to ask. I’m here to help!
Happy troubleshooting and stay tech-savvy!
