Not Enough USB Controller Resources: 5 Steps to Fix it

The USB controller resources error is one some users have reported arises when plugging devices into USB 3.0 ports on their PCs. A notification pops up with a Not enough USB controller resources message when that error arises. One user described that issue in a forum post as follows:

Hi, I’ve been trying to solve this problem for a while now but I can’t solve it. I cannot connect more than 2 XBox 360 PC joypads at the same time. The third is not detected and the operating system returns the alert Not enough USB controller resources.

This error can arise in Windows 11 and earlier platforms of Microsoft’s flagship OS series. As a consequence, users can’t connect further USB devices. You might be able to fix that error with the potential fixes outlined below.

How come the USB controller resources error occurs in Windows 11?

The USB controller error message says the controller doesn’t have sufficient resources for the connected device. Thus, this issue can often occur when plugging a device in eclipses the XHCI USB 3.0 controller’s resource limit. The XHCI USB 3.0 controller has an endpoint usage limit.

However, this issue can also pertain to USB 3.0 controller drivers. One or more of the USB host controller drivers on your PC might be faulty. Some users have said they’ve fixed the Not enough USB controller resources error by reinstalling USB controller drivers.

How can I fix the not enough USB controller resources in Windows 11?

1. Connect devices with USB 2.0 ports on your PC instead

As this error occurs for USB 3.0 ports, connecting devices with available USB 2.0 ports on your PC could be a simple workaround. That might not exactly be a fix, but at least you’ll be able to connect more USB devices to your PC without any issues.

2. Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter

1. Press the Windows + S hotkey that opens the Type here to search tool.
2. Search for the Command Prompt by entering cmd in the text box.
   
3. Click Command Prompt in your search results.
4. Type in this command from opening the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter: msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
5. Press the Enter keyboard key.
   
6. Click Next to start the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter’s scanning.
   

3. Update USB drivers

1. Type in Device Manager in the Search menu.
   
2. Find the Universal Serial Bus controllers section and double-click on it.
   
3. Right-click on the USB 3.0 device and select Update Driver.
   
4. Select the Search automatically for drivers option.
   
5. Wait to find the best driver version for your device.
6. Restart your PC after the installation is complete.

Alternatively, you can choose a more practical and time-saving solution that will update any old drivers from your system automatically.

Outbyte Driver Updater is a freely available driver updater tool that will tell you if any of the USB controller drivers on your PC are faulty or outdated. You can also install new drivers for the USB controllers using this reliable tool.

Moreover, it’s possible to create a driver backup for additional protection regarding updating drivers and be relaxed about other system malfunctions.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

4. Reinstall USB host controllers

1. Right-click Start to open a Power User menu.
2. Click Device Manager to bring up that window.
   
3. Double-click Universal Serial Bus controllers to view that USB category.
   
4. Right-click a USB host controller listed there to select Uninstall device.
   
5. Then press the Uninstall device button on the Uninstall Device window.
6. Repeat the above steps for all host controllers listed within the Universal Serial Bus controllers category.
7. Click Power on the Start menu, and select Restart from there. Windows should then automatically reinstall drivers for USB controllers.
   

5. Try using a USB dock

The Not enough USB controller resources error can also arise because too much power is being drawn from USB ports. That error might not occur if you plug devices into a USB dock with its power source. If you happen to have a USB hub handy, try connecting your devices to the PC with it.

There aren’t that many potential fixes for the Not enough USB controller resources error. However, those resolutions will likely be enough to fix the Not enough USB controller resources error in Windows 11 in most cases.

As always, you’re welcome to discuss the error covered in this guide below. If you’ve discovered any other way to resolve the Not enough USB controller resources error, feel free to share it in the comment section.