In Windows Device Manager, how do I identify an unknown device? (2024)

In Windows, to identify unknown devices in DeviceManager, go to the computer manufacturer's web site and downloadthe drivers that are listed for your computer's model; seeARCHIVED: How do I obtain and update my device drivers?

If there are multiple drivers for a certain type of device, orthere is no easily identifiable information for a particular piece ofhardware, try the following:

1. Open Device Manager; see ARCHIVED: In Windows, what is the Device Manager, and how can I use it?
2. Right-click the unknown device and chooseProperties.
3. Click the Details tab.
4. In the Property drop-down box, select HardwareIDs.
5. Copy the vendor and device code section of the string. Forexample, if the entire string isPCI\VEN_14E4&DEV_432B&SUBSYS_008D106B&REV_01,copy only VEN_14E4&DEV_432B.
6. Type or paste the copied section into a search engine. Browse theresults and try to identify the device manufacturer and model number.

   Note: If you do not receive any search results,try a new search using only the vendor code (e.g.,VEN_14E4). The results should display the manufacturer ofthe device, which will help you find the driver.

7. Once you have identified the make and model of the unknown device,go to the manufacturer's web site and search for the driver for thatparticular model number.

For help, contact the Support Center.