Fix USB Composite Device Driver error in Windows 11

I will tell you How to fix USB Composite Device Driver Error in Windows 11

In this post, we will show you how to fix the USB Composite Device driver error in Windows 11. If you see a yellow exclamation mark next to the USB Composite Device entry in Device Manager, it means that Windows has detected a problem with the device, which likely indicates a problem with the driver that enables communication between the device and your computer's operating system.

How to fix USB Composite Device Driver Error in Windows 11

What is a USB Composite Device in Windows 11?

In Windows 11, a USB Composite Device refers to a USB device that performs multiple functions using a single connection. For example, a printer that also scans and faxes, but uses only one USB port to connect to the computer. These devices allow multiple functions to be opened through a single connection, which conserves USB ports and allows the operating system to handle each function independently.
Causes of USB Device Driver Error: USB device errors are usually generated by some driver issues that are either outdated or incompatible, especially when an older device is connected to a modern USB 3.0 port. Except that, disabling power management settings, corrupt Windows updates, or corrupt driver installations prevent the system from properly recognizing the device; these factors lead to errors.

Fix USB Composite Device Driver Error

To fix USB Composite Device Driver error on your Windows 11/10 PC, use these solutions:

Run Hardware and Devices troubleshooter

Update USB Composite Device Driver

Uninstall and reinstall USB Composite Device Driver

Change USB Port Settings

Use a USB 2.0 port

Let’s see it in detail.

1] Run Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

The Hardware and Devices troubleshooter is not directly available in Windows 11 Settings as Microsoft has phased out some built-in troubleshooters, but you can still access it through a command prompt.

Press Win + R on your keyboard. In the Run dialog box, type msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic and press Enter.

The command will launch the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter, which will guide you through a series of prompts. Once the troubleshooter completes its assessment, it will present you with a summary of the detected issues and possible solutions. Apply the suggested fixes, reconnect the USB composite device, and see if the error is resolved.

Related: USB Composite Device is an Older USB Device and Might Not Work with USB 3.0

2] Update USB Composite Device Driver

Driver updates provide the latest bug fixes and compatibility improvements, ensuring that your device works properly within the Windows environment.

Double-right-click the Start button, and then select Device Manager. Expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers section. Find the USB Composite device, right-click it, and select Update Driver. Next select Search automatically for updated driver software.

This may allow the Internet and system window to search for the latest updates, and install any new drivers automatically.

If this does not work, try other methods to update drivers, such as using Windows Update or manually downloading and installing the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website.

3] Uninstall and Reinstall the USB Composite Device Driver

Uninstalling the driver removes any corrupted or outdated driver files, allowing Windows to reinstall a fresh version. This process can restore proper device functionality, fix communication issues, and ensure that the latest compatible driver is being used, possibly fixing the error you are experiencing.

In Device Manager, locate the USB Composite Device. Right-click on it and select Uninstall device. Once uninstalled, unplug the USB device and restart your PC.

After the restart, reconnect the device and Windows should reinstall the necessary drivers.

4] Change USB port settings

Power saving settings in Windows can turn off the USB Composite Device when it is not in active use, leading to intermittent connectivity issues. Adjust settings such as disabling sleepBy enabling USB power management or changing the power management options in Device Manager, you can improve power delivery to USB ports and device detection.

Open Device Manager and expand Universal Serial Bus controllers. Right-click on USB Root Hub (USB 3.0) and select Properties.

In the USB Root Hub Properties window, go to the Power Management tab and uncheck "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power." Click OK to apply the changes.

This action prevents Windows from automatically disabling the USB composite device to save power. Once you have made this change, restart your PC and see if the system recognizes the device correctly.

5] Use a USB 2.0 port

Although USB 3.0 ports are generally backward compatible with older USB standards (such as USB 2.0 or 1.1), certain older devices, especially USB composite devices, might not work properly when connected to USB 3.0 ports.

If your computer has both USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports available, try connecting the USB composite device to a USB 2.0 port. This usually resolves backward compatibility issues. A powered USB hub can also ensure that devices receive enough power, especially if they require more power than standard ports can supply.

How to Fix USB Composite Device Driver error in Windows 11