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

Running specific hardware troubleshooters is often the fastes fix

3 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

You must have gotten the code 19 error messageWindows 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?

What are the causes of hardware device code 19?

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

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

We recommend you try the following easy workarounds first:

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

1. Run the specific hardware troubleshooter

2. Update drivers

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It helps you scan the system for outdated drivers and fix them with their official manufacturer version.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

4. Perform a System Restore

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 toreset 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.

More about the topics:Driver issues

Afam Onyimadu

Windows Software Expert

Afam is a geek and the go-to among his peers for computer solutions. He has a wealth of experience with Windows operating systems, dating back to his introduction to Windows 98. He is passionate about technology amongst many other fields. Aside from putting pen to paper, he is a passionate soccer lover, a dog breeder, and enjoys playing the guitar and piano.

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Afam Onyimadu

Windows Software Expert

Afam is a geek and the go-to among his peers for computer solutions. He has a wealth of experience with Windows operating systems.