This hardware device is not connected to the computer (Code 45)

Error Code 45 is quite a common error people see in the Device Manager. This error occurs when Windows fails to recognize the hardware device connected to the system, throwing up the following message on your screen:

This hardware device is not connected to the computer Code 45

This error occurs if a device that was previously connected to the computer is no longer connected. To resolve this problem, reconnect this hardware device to the computer. No resolution is necessary. This error code is only used to indicate the disconnected status of the device and does not require you to resolve it. The error code resolves automatically when you connect the associated device to the computer, says Microsoft.

But at times this Device Manager Error Code may continue to plague you. Your system may crash when you attempt to use the hardware device for which this error had previously appeared. Moreover, your Windows may run slowly or hang up frequently.

This error occurs if a device previously connected to the computer is no longer connected. To resolve this problem, reconnect this hardware device to the computer. No resolution is necessary. This error code is only used to indicate the device’s disconnected status and does not require you to resolve it. The error code resolves automatically when you connect the associated device to the computer.

Error code 45 can appear anytime but knowing when and where it occurred is very useful when fixing the issue. This error can be attributed to several reasons. You might have incorrectly configured or corrupted device drivers or be dealing with faulty hardware. Further, the error can also occur due to a corrupted or faulty Windows registry, probably due to recent changes.

Sometimes the resolution of this issue is as straightforward and easy as unplugging and plugging the hardware to the computer.  If you are facing this issue because of faulty hardware, going to a technician and getting it repaired or replaced is recommended. You will get to know that if none of the solutions given below are able to help you sort out the problem.

1] Reconnect the Device

Ensure the hardware is properly connected to your computer. If it’s an external device, unplug and replug it securely.

You could also test the device on another computer and check for faulty cables, ports, or connectors.

2] Running the Hardware Troubleshooter

Run the Hardware Troubleshooter and see if it helps.

2] Scanning and Repairing Hard Disk Corruption

In the search box, type Command and then press CTRL+Shift+Enter. Type “chkdsk /f” in the CMD box and hit ENTER.

Check Disk will begin scanning for possible hard disk corruption that could be the reason behind Error code 45. If found, it will repair the same.

3] Update, rollback or reinstall the Driver

You may want to check if your device drivers are up-to-date. This post will show you how to update or reinstall Device Drivers.

Hopefully, one of the above three fixes should help you resolve the error. If not, it could be safely assumed that the problem is with the hardware. Ensuring that all the physical connections have been made properly could mean that the hardware has gone bad and that you may need to replace it. As discussed earlier, in such a case, the system might need to be checked by a hardware technician.

Read: Microsoft Hosted Network Virtual Adapter missing.

How do I fix error code 45?

To fix Error Code 45, reconnect the device to your computer, as this error indicates it is no longer detected. Ensure the device is properly plugged in and recognized by the system. If the error persists, update the drivers and check for hardware issues.