How to Scan USB Ports for Devices

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Microsoft Windows is designed to detect the identity of devices connected to the USB ports on your computer. This ability is important for the operating system to install the appropriate drivers and software for your device, and for allowing the computer to use the functions of the device as intended. You can see all devices connected to the USB ports in the Devices and Printers window, and you can scan the USB hubs for individual device information through the Windows Device Manager.

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Step 1

Click "Start." Type "USB Devices" and press Enter. This opens a window containing attached devices and printers.

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Step 2

Click "View" then "Sort by, Device Category." This rearranges the device icons by type. USB peripherals and input devices are shown last in the Devices section.

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Step 3

Click "Start." Type "Manage USB" and press the Enter key. This opens a Device Manager window.

Step 4

Double-click to expand "Universal Serial Bus controllers," then double-click "USB Root Hub." This opens a properties window.

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Step 5

Click the "Power" tab, and look at the attached devices section. This provides a description of all USB devices connected to the ports on your computer. Click the "Refresh" button to rescan the ports for any additional devices.

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