How to Fix Network Adapter ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ Error

How to Fix Network Adapter ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ Error

If you’re experiencing the ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ error on your network adapter, you’re not alone. The How to Fix Network Adapter ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ Error issue often prevents users from connecting to the internet, making it a serious problem. Fortunately, you can resolve this network adapter issue using a few troubleshooting steps.

What Causes the ‘Code 10’ Network Adapter Error?

How to Fix Network Adapter ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ Error typically occurs due to:

• Corrupt or outdated network adapter drivers
• Hardware conflicts
• Missing system updates
• Faulty network adapter hardware

How to Fix Network Adapter ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ Error.

1. Restart Your Computer

Before diving into complex solutions, restart your PC. A simple reboot can refresh system components and resolve temporary network adapter conflicts.

2. Run the Network Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix network adapter issues:

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Additional Troubleshooters.
4. Select Network Adapter and run the troubleshooter.

If Windows detects a network adapter issue, it will attempt to fix it automatically.

3. Update Network Adapter Drivers

Outdated or incompatible network adapter drivers are a common cause of this error. To update your drivers:

1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Network adapters.
3. Right-click on your network adapter and choose Update driver.
4. Select Search automatically for drivers.

If Windows doesn’t find an update, visit the manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest network adapter driver manually.

4. Uninstall and Reinstall the Network Adapter

If updating doesn’t work, try reinstalling the network adapter:

1. Open Device Manager (Windows + X > Device Manager).
2. Expand Network adapters.
3. Right-click on your network adapter and choose Uninstall device.
4. Restart your computer, and Windows will automatically reinstall the network adapter driver.

5. Check for Windows Updates

A missing system update might be causing the network adapter issue. To check for updates:

1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

6. Reset Network Settings

If the issue persists, reset your network settings:

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Network & Internet.
3. Scroll down and click Network reset.
4. Click Reset now and restart your PC.

7. Try a Different USB Port (For External Network Adapters)

If you’re using a USB network adapter, try plugging it into a different USB port. Faulty ports can sometimes cause network adapter recognition issues.

8. Perform a System Restore

If the network adapter error started recently, you can restore your system to a previous working state:

1. Type Restore in the Windows search bar and select Create a restore point.
2. Click System Restore and follow the on-screen instructions.

9. Check for Hardware Issues

If none of the above solutions work, your network adapter might be defective. Try using a different network adapter or testing your current one on another computer.

Final Thoughts

The How to Fix Network Adapter ‘This device cannot start. (Code 10)’ Error can be frustrating, but in most cases, it’s fixable through driver updates, network resets, or basic troubleshooting. If the issue persists, you may need to replace your network adapter.

By following these steps, you should be able to restore your internet connection quickly. Let us know in the comments which method worked for you!