How to Fix 'A Driver Can't Load on This Device' Error in Windows

Receiving the error message “A driver can’t load on this device” is a scenario no Windows user enjoys, especially when device functionality or key peripherals suddenly stop working. In recent years, Windows’ evolving driver security architecture—while crucial for keeping malware and unstable software at bay—has made this message increasingly common. Instead of leaving users to puzzle over obscure technical jargon, Microsoft has provided a more transparent, guided approach to identifying, troubleshooting, and resolving such driver issues. Understanding the root cause of this message, as well as the options available, can help keep your Windows device secure and running smoothly.

What Triggers the “A Driver Can’t Load on This Device” Warning?​

Windows uses drivers—specialized pieces of code—to enable communication between your operating system and hardware devices. These range from graphics cards and printers to more exotic peripherals or internal chipset components. When Windows notices a driver that isn’t up to its security standards, or that’s incompatible with the running OS version, it may prevent that driver from loading, throwing up a dedicated warning message.
In the majority of cases, there are three key triggers:

• The driver isn’t properly signed or its digital signature isn’t recognized.
• The driver uses legacy kernel-mode code that’s blocked by Windows security policies.
• The underlying update or third-party software introduces incompatibilities.

Microsoft has invested considerable effort into tightening its driver requirements, especially since the release of Windows 10 and continuing into Windows 11. Driver signature enforcement and kernel-mode code integrity (KMCI) are two main defenses that, while boosting safety, sometimes prevent legitimate drivers—particularly older ones—from functioning as intended.

Common Error Message Variants​

While the theme is consistent, the precise message text can vary. Many users encounter variants like:

• “A driver can’t load on this device due to a security policy.”
• “Windows blocked a driver from loading due to security risks.”
• “This driver has been blocked from loading.”
• “A digitally unsigned driver cannot be installed on Windows.”

Each signals a potential risk to device stability or data security, but also points to specific remedial steps.

Why Does Windows Block Drivers? Security and Stability Rationale​

Microsoft’s rationale is rooted in the push for a secure computing environment. Drivers operate at a low system level; poorly written or malicious code can compromise the kernel, leading to data loss, device instability, or even remote code execution. Digital signatures—independent cryptographic certifications—help verify that drivers are legitimate and untampered. Kernel-mode code integrity, meanwhile, blocks older drivers that manipulate memory dangerously or circumvent newer OS protections.
As attacks targeting the Windows kernel have grown more sophisticated, the ecosystem has little tolerance for lax driver oversight. Microsoft’s stated policy is that “drivers must be signed and meet stringent compatibility standards,” with “unsigned and insecure drivers” being the number one vehicle for rootkits and ransomware in enterprise settings.

Step-by-Step: Microsoft’s Official Troubleshooting Guidance​

1. Identify the Blocked Driver​

First, Windows typically provides the blocked driver’s name and publisher within the notification or Device Manager. Open Device Manager (Win + X > Device Manager) and check for yellow exclamation marks; the affected device’s status tab will offer more detail.

• The error message might include a “Learn more” link—clicking this delivers a code, such as “Driver cannot be loaded” or a hexadecimal error number.
• Taking note of the filename and publisher is essential. It allows targeted troubleshooting and helps avoid guesswork.

2. Restart Your Device​

Microsoft’s initial recommendation remains simple: a system reboot. Driver loading may fail due to temporary OS updates or incomplete hardware initialization. Restarting can occasionally resolve minor conflicts or let Windows apply recent updates that may unblock newer drivers.

3. Check for Windows Updates​

Running the latest version of Windows—including optional updates—ensures you have the most recent driver signing policies and compatibility improvements. To update:

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
• Click “Check for updates.”
• Install all available updates, including optional driver and security patches.

Frequent updates may contain revised device drivers directly from hardware manufacturers or additional mitigations for known driver issues.

4. Update (or Roll Back) the Driver​

If Windows is blocking a newly installed or updated driver, it may be because the latest version hasn’t passed certification, or is incompatible with your device. Conversely, a legacy driver may be incompatible with newer OS standards.
To attempt a fix:

• In Device Manager, right-click the problematic device and choose “Update driver.”
• Select “Search automatically for drivers.” Windows will look for a compatible version.
• Alternatively, visit the hardware vendor’s website and download the latest approved driver.
• If the error followed a recent update, the “Roll Back Driver” button under Properties > Driver may restore functionality by reverting to a previous working version.

5. Remove and Reinstall the Device​

If updating fails, uninstalling the device and letting Windows redetect it upon reboot can resolve persistent recognition issues:

• In Device Manager, right-click the device and select “Uninstall device.”
• Restart your PC; Windows will attempt to reinstall the correct driver automatically.

6. Temporarily Disable Driver Signature Enforcement (Last Resort)​

For genuinely necessary hardware with no updated drivers available, advanced users can temporarily disable driver signature enforcement. This is not recommended except as a stopgap for trusted hardware.

• Hold Shift and click “Restart” from the Start menu to enter recovery mode.
• Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
• Choose to “Disable driver signature enforcement.”
• On reboot, install the problem driver.

Warning: Permanent use of this workaround weakens system security overall, making your device more vulnerable to malware or instability. Only use this function under expert supervision or genuine necessity.

Strengths of Microsoft’s Protective Approach​

Proactive Security Posture​

Microsoft’s robust driver vetting has paid dividends. The reduction in successful malware intrusions via rogue drivers has been confirmed by a range of security firms and independent analysts. Kernel attacks—once a primary vector for targeted ransomware—are increasingly rare on up-to-date Windows systems.

Transparency and User Feedback​

In earlier Windows releases, driver failures were cryptic, often reported as “Unknown device error” or “Code 43.” Modern versions supply explicit warnings, direct links to troubleshooting resources, and more comprehensible diagnostics, making recovery less daunting for everyday users.

Support for Modern Hardware​

The new policies force hardware makers to adhere to best practices. Devices with Secure Boot and compatible TPM modules offer deeper OS protections when running signed, up-to-date drivers—a key part of the Windows 11 experience and requirements.

Weaknesses and User Frustration Points​

Legacy Hardware at Risk​

Many users, especially in education, healthcare, or creative industries, rely on peripherals that may no longer be supported by their manufacturers. Audio cards, plotters, scientific measurement devices, and older printers often become “orphaned”—not due to hardware failure, but because their drivers can’t meet Microsoft’s strict new standards. This forces organizations to budget for upgrades or seek out custom, community-made drivers that may introduce new risks.

Temporary Breakage After Updates​

Even major PC manufacturers occasionally release drivers that trigger compatibility flags after a major Windows security update. This breaks device functionality unexpectedly, especially when auto-updates coincide with critical work.

Difficult Workarounds for Experienced Users​

Power users can disable checks and force unsigned drivers through local group policy tweaks or startup settings, but this is risky and officially discouraged. Each workaround also requires administrator access, making it impractical in managed IT environments or shared systems.

Real-World Scenarios: What Users Experience​

Scenario 1: Graphics Tablet Failure​

A freelance artist updates to a new Windows build, unaware that their out-of-warranty graphics tablet relies on a driver last revised in 2016. On reboot, they’re presented with a “Driver can’t load” message. Despite several attempts to reinstall, the tablet fails to function. Scan of the hardware vendor’s support page reveals no driver support for Windows versions post-2018. Ultimately, the artist must choose between purchasing a new tablet or using a secondary, older PC.

Scenario 2: Enterprise Device Fleet​

A hospital chain manages hundreds of specialized barcode scanners tied to patient records. An overnight Windows update breaks scanner connectivity. IT discovers the driver in question—a decade old and digitally unsigned—now fails to load across the entire fleet. Emergency measures include using a system restore and delaying Windows updates until the scanner manufacturer supplies an updated, compliant driver.

Scenario 3: Temporary Fixes in Home Environments​

A home user attempts to revive an aging webcam for conference calls. They disable core Windows protections, force-install an unsigned driver, and the device works—but only at the potential expense of malware susceptibility or system instability. Later, a patch or cumulative update re-enables default driver checks, causing the webcam to fail again without warning.

The Broader Ecosystem Impact​

Encouraging Secure Development Standards​

Microsoft’s policies have raised the bar industry-wide. Hardware vendors can’t publish “quick-and-dirty” drivers as they might have in the past. This push for rigorous code signing and ongoing driver updates has minimized the attack surface on modern systems and forced legacy device makers to double down on long-term support.

Risks to Circular Economy and Sustainability​

Device obsolescence now contributes significantly to electronic waste, driven not by hardware failure but by lack of support. Organizations and individuals face mounting challenges to eco-friendly reuse, with working hardware sidelined for lack of driver approval.

Community-Driven Solutions​

An ecosystem of open-source driver projects has grown in response. Forums and GitHub repositories offer digital signature tools, compatibility workarounds, and reverse-engineered drivers. While some projects are reputable, others carry significant malware risk, underscoring the importance of caution and digital provenance.

Future Outlook: Easing Friction and Improving Support​

Microsoft is actively collaborating with third-party hardware vendors to ease these growing pains. The company has introduced mechanisms such as the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program, offering clearer documentation and automated testing for developers.
Additionally, initiatives like Windows Update for Business allow enterprise fleet managers to stagger driver rollouts, test updates on limited hardware pools, and roll back problematic patches.
The Windows Insider Program also provides an avenue for early detection, with community feedback often leading to expedited fixes for widespread driver issues before general release.

Conclusion: Navigating a Secure, But Sometimes Inflexible, Driver Future​

The “A driver can’t load on this device” warning exemplifies Windows’ evolving, security-first mindset. Most users benefit from the tighter controls—it’s now much harder for malicious or unstable drivers to compromise a device. The clear, guided troubleshooting process increases self-sufficiency and often points users to a workable solution, especially for widely used peripherals.
However, this comes with unavoidable trade-offs. Edge-case hardware and legacy equipment may be left behind, putting a premium on proactive device management and long-term support from manufacturers. Microsoft’s transparency is welcome, but the speed of OS and driver evolution means some pain is inevitable for users with older or less common devices.
The best approach: stay updated, use vendor-approved drivers wherever possible, and weigh the risks before forcing noncompliant drivers onto your system. For users with critical legacy needs, consider device lifecycle planning as part of your broader IT strategy, factoring in both the cost and environmental implications of required upgrades.
Staying informed and adopting best practices as outlined by Microsoft and trusted community channels will help ensure your Windows experience remains both secure and productive—even as the driver landscape continues to evolve.

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Source: Microsoft Support A driver can't load on this device - Microsoft Support

If you’ve encountered the “A driver can’t load on this device” message in Windows, you’re not alone. This issue, which has seen increasing reports since the introduction of more secure driver enforcement mechanisms in Windows 10 and Windows 11, reflects Microsoft’s tightening of the operating system’s security perimeter. While this is good news for overall system integrity, it can present sudden roadblocks for users dependent on perfectly functioning hardware and peripherals. This article will explore why these messages appear, the detailed technical underpinnings, effective troubleshooting strategies, and critical context about both the risks and benefits of Microsoft’s evolving approach to driver control.

Understanding “A driver can’t load on this device”​

At its core, the message that “A driver can’t load on this device” signals that Windows has blocked a driver—essentially, the low-level software that enables communication between the OS and hardware components. Windows may prevent a driver from loading if it poses a security risk, is outdated, is not properly signed, or breaches newer policies starting with Windows 10’s hardened driver environment.
The error typically appears as a notification in the Action Center or as a pop-up soon after startup or device plugin. The text may read:

“A driver can’t load on this device”
What happened: A driver you need has error(s) and can’t load.
Why did this happen: The driver may have been blocked from loading because it’s unsigned, its signature can’t be verified, or it uses legacy code that’s no longer allowed on this version of Windows.

Click to expand...

Users typically receive an error code or further details, which help narrow down the cause.

Technical Background: Why Do Driver Blocks Happen?​

1. Code Signing and Windows Driver Enforcement​

Since Windows 10, Microsoft has enforced stricter requirements for driver code signing. All kernel-mode drivers must have a valid digital signature issued by a trusted authority; this helps ensure the driver hasn’t been tampered with and is genuinely from the publisher.
Any unsigned or improperly signed driver is now flagged and prevented from loading, unless special Developer Mode settings or test configurations are enabled—a scenario intended mostly for driver developers, not the general public.

2. HVCI/Memory Integrity (Core Isolation)​

A major advance in Windows security is the move toward virtualization-based security (VBS) technologies like Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity (HVCI), also called “Memory Integrity.” When enabled, HVCI ensures only drivers that meet even more rigid design and signing standards can be loaded into memory. While this dramatically improves protection against rootkits and exploits, it can disallow drivers that worked fine on earlier versions of Windows but which haven’t been updated by their vendors.

3. Driver Blacklisting and Compatibility Lists​

Microsoft maintains lists of drivers known to have critical vulnerabilities or widespread compatibility issues. These are blacklisted through Windows Update or feature upgrades. If you’re running a driver from this list, especially for niche or older hardware, you may run into this error after a Windows update even if the device worked previously.

4. Changes in Secure Boot Policies​

On PCs where Secure Boot is enabled, the firmware only allows bootloaders and drivers that are signed with trusted keys. Any attempt to install or load an unsigned or non-compliant driver results in block messages.

Diagnosing the Error: First Steps​

• Read the Details: The error popup often includes a link or error code. Clicking through can lead to device-specific information in Device Manager or the “View reliability history” panel. Note the name of the problematic driver and the error code—these are critical for deeper investigation.
• Check Windows Security Settings: Head to “Windows Security” > “Device Security” > “Core Isolation Details.” If Memory Integrity is enabled, Windows will list any incompatible drivers here. Disabling this setting (not recommended except for testing) can confirm whether a driver is blocked because of HVCI.
• Open Device Manager: Devices with issues will be marked with a yellow triangle. Right-click, select Properties, and review the device status under the “General” and “Driver” tabs.

Solutions: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting​

1. Update the Blocked Driver​

The first and safest approach is always to obtain an updated, signed driver from the device manufacturer. Visit the vendor’s official support site and check for recently released drivers compatible with your build of Windows. Beware of third-party driver sites that may distribute malware or outdated files.
Critical Analysis: This approach is highly effective for supported and mainstream devices, less so for legacy hardware no longer receiving updates.

2. Remove or Replace the Problematic Device​

If no updated driver is available, and the blocked device isn’t mission-critical (such as an old printer or webcam), consider replacing it with a newer, supported model. Alternatively, you can remove the device completely.

3. Temporarily Disable Memory Integrity​

If you need the blocked device urgently and trust its origin, you can disable “Memory Integrity” under Device Security in Windows. This bypasses some driver checks but lowers overall system protection. Use as a temporary measure only:

• Go to “Start,” search “Core Isolation,” and open the settings.
• Set “Memory integrity” to Off.
• Restart your PC.

Caution: Disabling security features exposes your system to higher risk. Security experts strongly advise only using this for essential troubleshooting.

4. Use Device Manager to Roll Back​

If the block coincided with a recent update, you might be able to roll back to a previous, working driver version:

• Open Device Manager, right-click the device, select Properties.
• Under the “Driver” tab, try using the “Roll Back Driver” button if available.

5. Contact Device or System Manufacturer​

For branded PCs and laptops, OEMs may provide their own tested drivers. Visit your device manufacturer's support portal, enter the model number, and look for relevant downloads or advisories. Direct support channels can sometimes offer customized solutions if the issue affects more customers.

6. Advanced: Install an Older Driver with ‘Test Mode’ or Disable Driver Signature Enforcement (Developers and Professionals Only)​

For non-critical systems used in labs or development, it is possible to load unsigned drivers by:

• Enabling “Test Mode”:
• Open Command Prompt as administrator and enter:
  bcdedit /set testsigning on
• Restart the PC.
• Or, temporarily disabling driver signature enforcement during boot by holding Shift while clicking “Restart,” then navigating to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart, and choosing option 7.

Warning: These workarounds significantly compromise system security and stability. They should never be used on production systems or any device exposed to the internet.

Weighing the Pros and Cons​

Strengths of Stricter Driver Enforcement​

• Reduced Risk of Malware: Kernel-mode drivers have deep access to the system. Blocking unsigned and potentially malicious drivers prevents a whole class of exploits.
• Stability Improvements: Many blue-screen errors and system crashes can be traced to poorly-written or outdated drivers. By enforcing newer standards, Microsoft helps eliminate a major source of instability.
• Faster Response to Zero-Day Flaws: Microsoft and hardware vendors can quickly blacklist drivers discovered to have dangerous vulnerabilities, rapidly protecting millions of devices without waiting for users to take action.

Downsides and Real-World Impact​

• Legacy Hardware Becomes Obsolete Faster: Peripheral and component manufacturers often stop supporting products after a few years. Users of older devices—especially in business environments—may find equipment rendered inoperable overnight.
• Gaps in Vendor Support: Some hardware brands lack resources or incentives to update drivers, particularly for budget or discontinued products.
• Disruption in Niche Applications: Industrial PCs, medical devices, and creative workstations often depend on custom or obscure hardware with little ongoing driver maintenance.

What Can Enterprise and Professional Users Do?​

Business and power users can sometimes skirt these issues with enterprise-focused tools or policies:

• Driver Packages via Group Policy: Enterprises can approve specific drivers across a fleet of devices using Group Policy or Microsoft Endpoint Manager.
• Application Compatibility Toolkits: Microsoft provides tools for testing custom drivers for enterprises bound to legacy hardware.
• Windows Insider Programs: Early access to newer Windows builds allows IT teams to identify and address driver compatibility issues before company-wide rollouts.

How to Prevent Future Driver Blockages​

Proactive strategies can save both organizations and individual users from sudden disruptions:

• Stick to Mainstream Hardware Vendors: Brands with strong support reputations are most likely to keep drivers updated for years.
• Schedule Regular Device Audits: Periodically review computers for drivers marked as “not digitally signed” or flagged by Windows Security.
• Stay Informed on Windows Update Changes: Monitor Microsoft advisories and support forums for early warnings of upcoming driver enforcement changes.

The Broader Context: Why This Issue Won’t Go Away​

Drivers remain a prime target for security researchers and malware authors alike. Attackers who manage to load a rogue or legacy driver can undermine most Windows security mechanisms. As the world moves toward more secure computing—especially with the proliferation of remote work, cloud-managed devices, and increasingly sophisticated attacks—the trend toward rigid driver policies will only increase.
From Microsoft's perspective, the annoyance or business cost of blocked devices is justified by the much larger risk posed by kernel-level threats. The burden, then, is shifting to hardware vendors and end-users to keep pace—a tension that’s unlikely to resolve itself soon.

SEO-Focused FAQs​

Why do I keep getting “A driver can’t load on this device” on my Surface or laptop?​

This error most often occurs after a Windows update that raises security standards or enforces new driver signature requirements. Laptops are heavily tested for compatibility, but obscure accessories or custom peripherals can trigger this message. Always seek updated drivers from the official support website for your exact device model.

Is it safe to install unsigned drivers or disable driver signature enforcement?​

No, bypassing these protections creates a significant security vulnerability. Only do this for temporary troubleshooting, and only if you are certain of the driver’s source.

What is Memory Integrity, and why does it block my old device?​

Memory Integrity (HVCI) is a core isolation feature in Windows Security that uses virtualization to protect critical system processes from attack—blocking drivers that don’t meet stringent standards, often affecting older or less-supported devices.

How do I find out which driver is blocked?​

Visit “Windows Security” > “Device Security” > “Core Isolation Details,” or check Device Manager for warnings. Error codes and driver names listed here will often point directly to the culprit.

Table: Common Blocked Devices and Solutions​

Conclusion: Navigating the New Landscape​

The message “A driver can’t load on this device” encapsulates the modern computing dilemma: balancing relentless security with practical usability. Microsoft’s stance represents a clear shift toward a trust-but-verify ecosystem, where only thoroughly vetted software is allowed to function at the deepest system level.
While frustrating for some, these changes help stave off increasingly complex cyberthreats and protect the integrity of both consumer and enterprise environments. Users and IT departments must be proactive—maintaining up-to-date drivers, preferring supported hardware, and understanding how to handle exceptions in a secure way when they arise.
For those impacted, start by seeking official updates and reviewing security settings. Use workarounds sparingly, and recognize that, in today’s threat landscape, blocked drivers are often a blessing in disguise—forcing everyone to raise the baseline of digital safety. As Windows continues to evolve, so too must the approaches of those who rely on it for work, creativity, and everyday life.

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Source: Microsoft Support A driver can't load on this device - Microsoft Support