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Windows is Unable to Stop the Device: 5 Ways to Fix it
Disable background processes or format the USB
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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A lot of users are just unplugging theUSBwithout disabling it first. Others will use this option to prevent possible USB drive or external HDD issues. However, some reported thatWindows is unable to stop the deviceprompt appeared.
The error message states that the device is still in use and users shouldterminate programsthat might be employing the USB. But this is easier said than done! Identifying the program and terminating it takes a great deal of effort.
So, we made sure to provide you with some solutions to the problem at hand.
What to do if Windows is unable to stop the device?
1. Check the background applications
As theWindows is unable to stop the deviceprompt itself points out, there seems to be a background process using theUSBMass Storage as you try to eject it.
Now, even though you’re quite sure that there are no backgroundprocessespreventing ejection, it’s still advised to double-check in the Task Manager. Some applications will work in the background, even if they are seemingly closed.
In addition, if you’re a Windows 10 user, you can easily determine whichprocessis using theUSBMass Storage with theSystem Event Log. System Event Log keeps track of all errors and prompts and provides a user with in-detail reports abouterrors.
2. Restart Explorer.exe
If the issue is persistent even after you’ve killed the process, the problem might lie in the Explorer. Explorer.exe tends to prevent the USB Mass Storage from ejecting, as well.
3. Check for storage errors
Another thing worth checking in order to avoid future issues is disc corruption. The system should offer you repairs the moment you plug the USB Mass Storage into a USB port.
If you’ve ignored it until now, we suggest using it to get rid of theWindows is unable to stop the deviceerror. On the other hand, even if the system doesn’t recognize drive errors, you can scan for errors on your own or even use adisk repair tool.
4. Disable background processes
With the System Event Log, you should be able to identify the exact application which is using the USB Mass Storage. However, the easiest way (although a bit too restrictive for some) to resolve inflictions of background applications is by the Clean Boot sequence.
This procedure kills off all non-system services and it should resolve theWindows is unable to stop the deviceerror so you can unplug your USB Mass Storage.
5. Format USB Mass Storage and start from a scratch
Finally, if you’re unable to resolve this issue with any of the previous steps, we suggest using areliable backup toolto save the data and formatting your USB Mass Storage.
This might be a drag, especially if you have a ton of data to back up. However, this is the safest way to avoid further issues with that particular drive.
And after you have fixed theWindows is unable to stop the deviceerror, check some quick tips tospeed up transfer speed on USB 3.0.
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding theerror, feel free to tell us in the comments section below.
More about the topics:Device Connection Error,USB issues
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
Aleksandar’s main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always spots the next big thing surrounding Microsoft and the Windows OS.
Focused on Windows errors and how to solve them, he also writes about the OS’s latest features as well as its interface.
In his free time, he likes to read, listen to music, and enjoy the nature. Hiking is one of his newly found passions.
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Aleksandar Ognjanovic
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