[Fix] Code 19 - Windows Cannot Start This Hardware Device

You must have gotten the code 19 error message Windows cannot start this hardware device because its configuration information (in the registry) is incomplete or damaged.

This is mainly a hardware-triggered error. So, in this guide, we explore the best solutions as well as possible causes so that you may avoid a repeat occurrence.

What are the causes of hardware device code 19?

• Hardware conflicts – If there are conflicts between hardware devices in your system, it could lead to code 19 errors.
• Incompatible or outdated drivers – If your system is experiencing code 19 errors, it could be due to an outdated or incompatible device driver.
• Faulty hardware – If Windows cannot start a hardware device, it may be caused by a faulty or damaged hardware device.

How do I fix Windows cannot start this hardware device (code 19)?

We recommend you try the following easy workarounds first:

• Restart the computer – A restart is often strong enough to kill problematic processes that may spark the code 19 error.
• Scan for viruses – A simple virus scan with a robust antivirus may eliminate the chances of the error due to malware.
• Test for hardware damage – You may try the hardware on a different computer to ascertain that it is not faulty.

After these workarounds, you may proceed to the solutions below if the error remains unresolved.

1. Run the specific hardware troubleshooter

1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
2. On the right pane, click on Troubleshoot.
   
3. Select Other troubleshooters.
   
4. Search for the hardware component that triggers the error and click on its Run button.
   
5. Verify if Windows cannot start this hardware device with error code 19 is fixed.

2. Update drivers

1. Right-click on the Start menu, and select Device Manager.
2. Expand any category where you have an outdated driver (they usually will have a yellow badge).
3. Right-click on the driver and select Update driver.
   
4. Select the Search automatically for updates option.
   
5. Finally, verify that Windows cannot start this hardware device with device code 19 error is fixed.

If you need a quicker and more reliable method to update any drivers on the PC, there’s no better option than a dedicated app.

It helps you scan the system for outdated drivers and fix them with their official manufacturer version.

⇒ Get Outbyte Driver Updater

3. Reinstall drivers

1. Right-click on the Start menu, and select Device Manager.
   
2. Expand any category where you have an outdated driver (they usually will have a yellow badge).
3. Right-click on the driver and select Uninstall device.
   
4. Confirm your choice.
5. Restart your computer and relaunch the Device Manager.
6. Click on the Scan for hardware changes.
   
7. Finally, verify that the error is resolved.

Read more about this topic

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4. Perform a System Restore

1. Press Windows + R, type rstrui, and hit Enter.
   
2. Click the Next button.
   
3. Lastly, select a restore point and hit the Next button.
   

That is as far as we share in this guide. As a last resort, you may reset your computer, but this is not recommended as you may lose valuable information. We have written a comprehensive guide on how to reset a Windows 11 device.

So, if you encounter Windows cannot start this hardware device code 19, try the above solutions starting from whichever you feel is most applicable.

Lastly, let us know in the comments section what fix was most effective.