Error: The Driver May Be Corrupted or Missing (Code 39) {FIXED}

If you have recently encountered the “Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware. The driver may be corrupt or missing. (Code 39)” error message after connecting a device to your PC, this post can help you!

This error code is sensitive as it makes the device unusable. It can appear due to either of the following reasons –

• Missing/Incompatible driver for a particular device.
• Windows Registry Error

Fortunately, the issue can be resolved easily, as there are several fixes that you can try. What are these fixes? Let’s find out!

Ways to Fix “Windows Cannot Load the Device…” Error on Windows

While trying to resolve the issue, the first thing you should do is restart your computer. In several situations, your PC’s memory registers face a temporary glitch due to overuse or long usage in a single run. If you do not restart your computer regularly or always use hibernation mode, this can be a good solution to such errors. 

However, if the restart does not work, do not panic; other fixes can get things done. Look at the following ways to resolve the driver that may be corrupted or missing an error on the PC. 

Fix 1 – Unplug and Replug the Device

If you get Error 39 after plugging in a device on your PC, it is possible that the PC has not read the device properly or was loosely connected. In both situations, it is advised that you – 

• Disconnect the device immediately and connect it again to a different port.
• Check the connection thoroughly and identify if it is loosely connected.
• Ensure that original accessories, such as the connecting cable.
• Check the device’s functioning by connecting the same to another PC. This will clear if the error lies in the device or your PC.

After checking all the factors and balancing them out, you should try using the device again, and the error should not appear. Compatibility is crucial for the smooth connectivity of a device. Hence, pay attention to these factors, and the issue can be controlled. 

Fix 2 – Update the Drivers for The Problematic Device

If connectivity is not an issue, and you are facing Error Code 39 on your PC, the only culprit left is the driver in question. First, you must ensure that the error exists due to the driver. To do so, you must check the driver’s properties to find the status and then update it. 

Here’s how you do it – 

Step 1 – Go to the Start Menu and look for Device Manager.

Step 2 – In the Device Manager, spot the driver showing the error.

Step 3 – Expand the device category and double-click on the driver to open its properties.
Step 4 – You may find the status tab in the Properties window. Check whether the status says “The Device Driver is Working Fine.” Or it shows the driver may be corrupt or missing an error.

Step 5 – After checking if the error exists, right-click on the driver and click on the Update Driver option to initiate the update process.

While performing these steps, you will realize that the process is not easy to finish, and you must perform the same for every driver. This is why we recommend you opt for a better way and use Advanced Driver Updater. 

It is a dedicated application that allows you to finish driver updates much quicker. All you have to do is – 

Step 1 – Download and install the app on your PC.

Step 2 – Run the app and initiate the process with the Start Scan Now button.

Step 3 – Once the scan is complete, you get a list of outdated drivers on the PC. Click on Update All to start the update process and let it run independently.

After you have finished the process, restart your PC and check if the error code 39, the driver may be corrupted or missing, is still present.

You can always prioritize keeping the drivers updated automatically with Advanced Driver Updater, as it allows you to schedule the scans for the same. 

Fix 3 – Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

If you still face the issue after updating the existing drivers, you may face a compatibility issue. The best way to handle such issues on Windows is by using its native troubleshooting methods. Windows has a dedicated troubleshooter for hardware. Here’s how you run it – 

Step 1 – Press Win+R to open the run search. 

Step 2 – In the Run search, use the command msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and hit enter to open the troubleshooter.

Step 3 – Run the troubleshooter by clicking on Next and following the instructions on the screen. 

By the end of the troubleshooting, your hardware issues will be resolved, and you will experience a better performance of the device you have connected. Not to mention, the driver may be corrupted or missing error code 39, which is also resolved after running the troubleshooter. 

After running these fixes, you should be able to resolve the issue. If you face any issues using the fixes mentioned above, feel free to ask for help. these fixes will make it easier for you to do it yourself. 

Thanks for reading. Good luck!

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