This device cannot start (Code 10)
A generic error indicating that the device driver failed to load or initialize properly, often due to power state issues or corrupted driver files.
What you may notice
- Device has a yellow triangle in Device Manager
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth option disappears from Settings
- Device fails to wake up from Sleep or Hibernate
Likely Causes
- The driver is corrupted or incompatible
- The device is stuck in a low-power state
- Hardware failure (less common)
Before changing a driver
Record the exact error code and device name, save open work, and restart the PC once before making a deeper change. Check whether Windows Update or the PC maker has a model-specific package, and create an available restore point before removing software. Stop if the menus or hardware details do not match this guide.
Troubleshooting This device cannot start (Code 10)
Follow this flowchart to isolate the cause of the error.
How to fix it
Step 1: Hard Power Reset
Turn off the PC, unplug it from power, and hold the power button for 60 seconds. This drains capacitors and forces devices to fully re-initialize.
Step 2: Update or Reinstall Driver
In Device Manager, uninstall the device, check "Attempt to remove the driver for this device", and restart. Then install the latest official driver.