How to Fix Windows Error Code ERROR_490: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Windows errors can be frustrating, especially when they interrupt your workflow or prevent you from accessing important files. One such error is ERROR_490, which typically appears due to issues related to device accessibility or network device problems. Don’t worry — this detailed, step-by-step guide will help you troubleshoot and fix Windows Error Code ERROR_490 effectively.

What is Windows Error Code ERROR_490?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand what this error means. ERROR_490 usually translates to:

"The device is not connected."

This indicates that Windows is trying to access a device (like a USB drive, network, or multimedia device), but it is unable to do so because the device is disconnected, unresponsive, or there are driver-related problems.

Why Does Error 490 Occur?

Common reasons include:

Device physically disconnected or poorly connected

Outdated or corrupted device drivers

Network device issues (for network drives or devices)

Problems in the Windows Registry

USB port or hardware malfunction

How to Fix Windows Error Code ERROR_490: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Disconnect and Reconnect the Device

If you see this error after plugging in a device (USB, external hard drive, etc.), remove the device safely.

Wait for a few seconds and reconnect it firmly.

Check if the error persists.

Tip: Try connecting the device to a different USB port or computer to rule out port or device hardware issues.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes a simple reboot can resolve temporary glitches.

Close all programs and save your work.

Restart your PC from the Start menu.

Once restarted, check if the device is detected and working properly.

Step 3: Check Device Manager for Driver Issues

Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.

Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark or under “Unknown devices.”

Right-click on the problematic device and select Update driver.

Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

If Windows doesn’t find an update:

Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver.

Install the driver manually.

Restart your computer.

Step 4: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically identify and fix hardware-related issues.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.

Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.

Select Hardware and Devices, then click Run the troubleshooter.

Follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 5: Check Network Device Connections (If Applicable)

If ERROR_490 occurs while accessing a network drive or device:

Make sure you’re connected to the same network.

Restart your router/modem.

Verify network sharing settings on the device.

Try reconnecting the network device.

Step 6: Update Windows Operating System

Regular Windows updates include patches and fixes that can resolve system glitches.

Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Click Check for updates.

Install all available updates and reboot your PC.

Step 7: Scan for System Errors and Corrupted Files

Corrupted system files can cause ERROR_490.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for “cmd,” right-click and choose “Run as Administrator”).

Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Wait until the scan completes and follow any prompts.

If issues are found and fixed, restart your PC.

Step 8: Check USB Selective Suspend Setting (Power Management)

If the device disconnects intermittently, a power management setting may be causing this.

Open Control Panel > Power Options.

Click Change plan settings next to your selected power plan.

Click Change advanced power settings.

Expand USB settings > USB selective suspend setting.

Set it to Disabled. Click Apply and OK.

Restart your PC.

Step 9: Registry Fix (Advanced Users)

Improper registry entries may cause device detection problems.

Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause severe issues. Always back up your registry first.

Press Windows + R, type regedit and press Enter.

Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\USBSTOR

Look for the Start value on the right pane.

Double-click and set its value to 3 (which means enabled).

Close Registry Editor and restart your PC.

Step 10: Contact Support or Consider Professional Help

If you still face ERROR_490 after trying all above steps, it might be a hardware fault or a deeper software issue.

Contact your device manufacturer’s support.

Reach out to Microsoft support.

Consult a professional technician if necessary.

Final Thoughts

ERROR_490 can seem intimidating, but with patience and the above troubleshooting steps, most users can resolve it without needing expert intervention. Always remember to:

Keep backups of important data.

Handle hardware carefully.

Keep your system and drivers updated.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’re well-equipped to fix ERROR_490 and keep your Windows system running smoothly.

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