Windows ERROR_229, also known as "This device cannot start. (Code 229)", is a common error that occurs when a device driver fails to initialize properly. This code often pops up in the Device Manager and can prevent hardware devices such as USB drives, external devices, or even internal components from working correctly.
If you’ve encountered this frustrating issue, don’t worry — you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to diagnose and fix ERROR_229 on Windows, helping your device get back up and running smoothly.
What Causes Windows ERROR_229?
Before diving into fixes, it’s helpful to understand why ERROR_229 happens. Here are the most common causes:
- Corrupted or outdated device drivers
- Conflicts between hardware resources
- Faulty or incompatible device firmware
- Issues after Windows updates or upgrades
- Hardware failures or connection problems
Knowing this helps us narrow down which steps to take to restore your device functionality.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
It might sound basic, but often, a simple reboot resolves temporary glitches related to hardware communication.
- Save your work.
- Restart your PC.
- Check Device Manager to see if ERROR_229 still appears.
If the problem persists, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Unplug and Reconnect External Devices
If ERROR_229 is showing for an external device like a USB drive, printer, or external card reader:
- Safely eject and unplug the device.
- Wait for 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in, preferably into a different USB port.
- Watch for Windows to recognize and initialize the device again.
Sometimes a loose connection or power surge affects device startup.
Step 3: Update or Roll Back Device Drivers
Driver issues are the top cause of ERROR_229. Let’s fix this by updating or rolling back the relevant drivers.
How to Update Drivers:
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Find the device with the yellow warning sign or error code.
- Right-click the device > Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow the prompts to install any updates.
- Restart your computer.
How to Roll Back Drivers (if error started after recent update):
- In Device Manager, right-click the problem device > Properties.
- Switch to the Driver tab.
- Click Roll Back Driver (if available).
- Restart your PC.
Step 4: Run Windows Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix hardware problems.
- Open Settings (Windows + I).
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow on-screen instructions.
- Restart if needed.
Step 5: Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft regularly releases updates to fix bugs and compatibility issues.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Download and install all pending updates.
- Restart your PC.
Sometimes, installing the latest Windows update resolves driver conflicts causing ERROR_229.
Step 6: Disable and Re-enable the Device
Resetting the device’s status can trigger Windows reinitialization.
- Open Device Manager.
- Right-click the problem device > Disable device.
- Wait 10 seconds, then right-click again > Enable device.
- Check if the error is resolved.
Step 7: Use System Restore to Revert to a Previous State
If ERROR_229 appeared recently after changes or updates, using System Restore might help.
- Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and open it.
- Click System Restore.
- Pick a restore point dated before the error began.
- Follow prompts to restore your system.
Note: This won’t affect your personal files but will revert system files and drivers.
Step 8: Check Hardware Health and Connections
If the error persists, rule out hardware malfunction:
- Test the device on another PC to confirm if it’s working.
- Open your PC (desktop) and reseat internal devices like RAM, GPU, or expansion cards.
- Inspect cables, USB hubs, or adapters for damage.
- If possible, try replacing the problematic hardware.
Step 9: Reinstall Device Drivers Manually
If updating didn’t work, reinstall the drivers from scratch:
- Download the latest drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website.
- Open Device Manager, right-click the device > Uninstall device.
- Check Delete the driver software for this device (if prompted).
- Restart the PC.
- Run the driver installer downloaded in step 1.
This clean install often clears corruption causing ERROR_229.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help or Contact Manufacturer Support
If none of these steps solve the problem, the issue might be a deep hardware fault or firmware bug. Contact your device manufacturer’s support team or visit a professional repair center for further diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Running into Windows ERROR_229 can be frustrating, but with patience and the right approach, you can troubleshoot and fix it yourself. Whether it’s a driver conflict or a hardware glitch, the steps above cover the full spectrum so your device can work without error again.
Remember: Always keep backups of your important data before performing in-depth troubleshooting and system changes.
FAQs About Windows ERROR_229
Q: Can a Windows update cause ERROR_229?
A: Yes, sometimes Windows updates can update drivers that introduce conflicts or bugs causing this error.
Q: Is ERROR_229 hardware or software-related?
A: It can be both. It usually arises from driver or firmware issues but can also indicate physical hardware failure.
Q: Does uninstalling and reinstalling drivers delete data?
A: No, drivers are software components controlling devices and do not affect personal files.
Q: Can a virus cause ERROR_229?
A: Malware can damage system files, but ERROR_229 is typically driver or hardware-related.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with someone struggling with the same issue. Troubleshooting together can save many headaches! Feel free to leave a comment or question below — I’m here to help.
Happy fixing! 😊
