'The Device Cannot Start, Code 10' Error

The 'The Device Cannot Start, Code 10' error is a very troublesome Windows error code that users are likely to experience when trying to connect peripherals to their computer. According to online reports, the 'The Device Cannot Start, Code 10' error is very common when connecting a new USB stick, a removable hard disk or another storage device. If you are experiencing this problem, then you should keep on reading to find out some of the best troubleshooting tips for this exact issue:

Start with a Computer Reboot

No matter of how much computer technology has advanced, a restart is still the first thing to do when you are trying to troubleshoot an issue. If the problem persists after the reboot, then it is time to turn to some of the more advanced troubleshooting options.

Use the Windows Troubleshooter

Windows is very good at identifying and solving such issues on its own; you just need to know where to start. Start the troubleshooter by pressing Windows Button + X and selecting 'Windows PowerShell.' When the prompt loads, type in 'msdt.exe –id DeviceDiagnostic'

Select the 'Apply repairs automatically' checkbox, and initialize the task.

Inspect the Windows Device Manager

The Device Manager can tell you a lot about your devices' situation and give you access to some repair options. Press the Windows Button + X, and select the Device Manager. There, find the hardware causing the problem, and double-click it to see the 'Device Status.' If there is anything different than 'The device is working properly' in there, then you should try to reinstall or update the device driver through the right-click context menu.

Change the USB Port

If the hardware causing the issue is connecting via USB, then you should switch to a different port – there is a chance that one of your ports might be damaged or dysfunctional due to unknown reasons.