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Warm ambient photo illustrating error code-19
Code 19

Windows cannot start this hardware device (Code 19)

Usually caused by corrupted registry values related to the device class.

What you may notice

  • CD/DVD drive missing
  • Keyboard or mouse stops working entirely

Likely Causes

  • UpperFilters and LowerFilters registry values are corrupt
  • Failed driver update

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 Windows cannot start this hardware device (Code 19)

Follow this flowchart to isolate the cause of the error.

How to fix it

Step 1: Delete Registry Filters

Open RegEdit, navigate to the device class GUID, and delete UpperFilters and LowerFilters keys. Restart the PC.