Windows ERROR_157 is a frustrating issue that many users encounter while working with external drives or managing removable storage devices. It typically appears when your system cannot properly read from or write to the external media, often accompanied by error messages such as "The device does not recognize the command" or “Windows cannot access the device.” This guide will walk you through detailed, easy-to-follow steps to resolve ERROR_157 and get your device working smoothly again.
What is Windows ERROR_157?
ERROR_157 is a system error code indicating a failure in communication between your computer and an external storage device (like a USB drive, SD card, or external hard drive). This can happen due to corrupted drivers, outdated firmware, hardware issues, or file system errors.
Step-By-Step Guide to Fix Windows ERROR_157
Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Device
Before diving into complex fixes, start simple:
- Disconnect the external device (USB, SD card, etc.).
- Restart your computer. This clears temporary glitches in the system.
- Reconnect the device and check if the error persists.
Why this helps: Restarting refreshes drivers and clears cache that might cause device recognition problems.
Step 2: Try a Different USB Port or Computer
- Connect your external device to a different USB port on your PC.
- Alternatively, test it on another computer.
Why this helps: It helps rule out the possibility of a faulty USB port or hardware conflict on your computer.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers are often the cause of ERROR_157.
How to update drivers:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Disk drives or Universal Serial Bus controllers category.
- Right-click your external device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow prompts to complete the update.
If updating doesn’t help, reinstall:
- Right-click the device > Uninstall device.
- Disconnect the device, then reconnect it.
- Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers.
Step 4: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can fix many problems automatically.
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Find Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 5: Check Disk for Errors Using CHKDSK
Sometimes, file system corruption on the external device causes ERROR_157.
- Connect your device.
- Note the drive letter assigned (e.g., E:).
- Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
-
In the command prompt, type:
chkdsk E: /f /r
Replace E: with your drive letter.
- Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.
CHKDSK will detect and repair errors on the disk.
Step 6: Format the Drive (If Data Backup is Possible)
If the device is detected but inaccessible, formatting might solve the problem.
Warning: Formatting erases all data. Backup any recoverable files first.
- Open File Explorer and right-click your device.
- Select Format.
- Choose the appropriate file system (NTFS or exFAT recommended).
- Click Start and wait for the process to complete.
Step 7: Update Your Windows OS
System updates often include fixes for hardware compatibility.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install all available updates.
- Restart your computer.
Step 8: Check Power Management Settings
Sometimes Windows powers down USB ports to save energy, causing errors.
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
- Right-click each USB Root Hub and click Properties.
- Under the Power Management tab, uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
Step 9: Use System Restore as a Last Resort
If ERROR_157 started recently after changes or updates:
- Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
- Follow the wizard to restore your system to a previous date when the error was not present.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Device Health
- Safely eject devices before unplugging.
- Avoid using the same device on multiple improperly shut down systems.
- Regularly scan drives for viruses/malware.
- Keep firmware of your devices updated (visit manufacturer’s website).
Final Thoughts
Facing Windows ERROR_157 can be annoying, but with patience and these step-by-step solutions, you can usually restore your external storage device quickly. Remember, start with the simplest fixes and work your way to more advanced techniques, and always back up your data when possible to avoid data loss.
Got questions or need further help? Feel free to drop a comment below—I’m here to help you troubleshoot further!
SEO Keywords: Windows ERROR_157 fix, how to fix Windows ERROR_157, ERROR_157 troubleshooting Windows, external device error Windows 10/11, unable to access USB drive Windows error 157
Thank you for reading! If this guide helped you, consider sharing it to help others troubleshoot their Windows errors effectively.
