Hardware problems can occur on any Windows 11 PC, whether it’s a printer that won’t connect, a keyboard that’s not responding, a USB device that isn’t recognized, or audio hardware that suddenly stops working. While some issues require manual troubleshooting, Windows includes built-in tools that can automatically detect and fix many common hardware-related problems.
Although Microsoft removed the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter from the main Settings app in recent Windows versions, the tool is still available through a special command. It can scan your system for hardware issues, apply recommended fixes, and help restore normal device functionality without requiring advanced technical knowledge.
In this guide, you’ll learn several ways to run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter in Windows 11, along with alternative troubleshooting methods if the built-in tool doesn’t resolve the problem.
What Is the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter?
The Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter is a built-in Windows diagnostic utility designed to identify and fix common hardware problems automatically.
It can help troubleshoot issues involving:
- USB devices
- Printers
- Keyboards
- Mice
- Bluetooth devices
- External storage drives
- Audio hardware
- Other connected peripherals
The troubleshooter checks your system for configuration issues, missing settings, driver-related problems, and hardware conflicts before suggesting or applying fixes.
Method 1: Run Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter Using the Run Dialog
This is the easiest way to access the hidden troubleshooter.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type the following command:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic- Click OK or press Enter.
- When the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter opens, click Next.
- Allow Windows to scan for hardware problems.
- If issues are found, follow the recommended repair steps.
- Restart your computer if prompted.
This method works on most Windows 11 systems where the legacy troubleshooter is still available.
Method 2: Run the Troubleshooter Using Windows Terminal
Windows Terminal can also launch the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter.
- Open Windows Terminal.
- Type:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic- Press Enter.
- Click Next when the troubleshooter opens.
- Apply any recommended fixes.
This method is useful for users who prefer command-line tools.
Method 3: Run the Troubleshooter Using Command Prompt
Command Prompt supports the same command.
- Open Command Prompt.
- Enter:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic- Press Enter.
- Wait for the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter to open.
- Complete the troubleshooting wizard.
Administrator privileges are generally not required.
Method 4: Run the Troubleshooter Using PowerShell
PowerShell provides another quick way to launch the diagnostic tool.
- Open Windows PowerShell.
- Run:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic- Press Enter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart your PC if Windows recommends it.
PowerShell simply launches the same troubleshooting wizard.
Method 5: Create a Desktop Shortcut for the Hardware Troubleshooter
If you troubleshoot hardware frequently, creating a shortcut can save time.
- Right-click the desktop.
- Select New > Shortcut.
- Enter:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic- Click Next.
- Name the shortcut Hardware Troubleshooter.
- Click Finish.
Double-click the shortcut whenever you need to run the troubleshooter.
Method 6: Run Related Troubleshooters from Settings
Although the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter is hidden, Windows 11 includes several dedicated troubleshooters.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Locate the appropriate troubleshooter, such as:
- Audio
- Bluetooth
- Camera
- Network and Internet
- Printer
- Windows Update
- Click Run beside the relevant troubleshooter.
- Follow the recommendations provided.
These troubleshooters are often more specialized than the legacy Hardware and Devices tool.
Method 7: Use Device Manager to Troubleshoot Hardware
If the troubleshooter doesn’t fix the issue, Device Manager is the next place to check.
- Right-click the Start button.
- Select Device Manager.
- Expand the category containing the affected hardware.
- Look for devices with a yellow warning icon.
- Right-click the device.
You can then choose options such as:
- Update driver
- Disable device
- Enable device
- Uninstall device
- Scan for hardware changes
Many hardware problems can be resolved by updating or reinstalling the device driver.
Method 8: Restart the Hardware Device
Sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective.
If you’re troubleshooting:
- USB devices
- External hard drives
- Printers
- Bluetooth adapters
- Docking stations
Try the following:
- Disconnect the device.
- Wait a few seconds.
- Reconnect it.
- If applicable, restart the hardware.
- Restart your PC.
Windows may automatically reinstall the device and restore normal operation.
Method 9: Install Windows Updates
Hardware compatibility issues are sometimes resolved through Windows Update.
- Open Settings.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates.
- Restart your computer.
Windows Update often includes newer drivers and bug fixes for supported hardware.
Method 10: Check Optional Driver Updates
Windows 11 also offers optional driver updates.
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Windows Update > Advanced options.
- Click Optional updates.
- Expand Driver updates if available.
- Install any drivers related to your hardware.
- Restart your computer.
This is a safe way to obtain Microsoft-tested drivers for many devices.
What Problems Can the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter Fix?
The troubleshooter can detect and resolve a variety of common issues, including:
- Devices that are not recognized by Windows.
- Incorrect hardware configuration settings.
- Missing or damaged device settings.
- Certain driver-related problems.
- Issues with newly connected hardware.
- Some USB device detection errors.
- Hardware compatibility conflicts.
While it cannot repair physical hardware failures, it can often resolve software-related issues that prevent devices from working correctly.
What If the Troubleshooter Doesn’t Open?
On some newer versions of Windows 11, Microsoft has deprecated the MSDT (Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool), which means the msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic command may no longer launch the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter. If this happens, you can still troubleshoot hardware using the built-in troubleshooters available under Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, along with Device Manager and Windows Update.
If the command displays an error, make sure your Windows installation is fully updated and use the alternative troubleshooting methods described in this guide.
Tips for Fixing Hardware Problems
Before assuming a hardware device has failed, check all physical connections. Loose USB cables, faulty ports, or insufficient power can cause devices to malfunction. Testing the hardware on another computer can also help determine whether the problem lies with the device or your Windows installation.
Keeping Windows and your device drivers up to date is another important step. Manufacturers frequently release driver updates that improve compatibility, fix bugs, and enhance hardware performance.
If you’re troubleshooting internal hardware such as graphics cards or storage devices, verify that the hardware is properly installed and recognized in your system firmware (BIOS/UEFI) as well.
Conclusion
The Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter remains a useful diagnostic tool for resolving many common hardware issues in Windows 11, even though it is no longer listed in the Settings app. By launching it through the msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic command, you can quickly scan for configuration problems and apply automatic fixes.
If the legacy troubleshooter isn’t available on your system, Windows 11 still provides several effective alternatives, including dedicated troubleshooters in Settings, Device Manager, Windows Update, and optional driver updates. Using these tools together can help resolve most hardware-related problems without requiring third-party software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Windows 11 still have the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter?
Yes, on many systems it can still be launched using the msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic command. However, Microsoft has deprecated the MSDT platform, so it may not be available on the latest builds.
Can the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter fix driver issues?
It can resolve some driver-related configuration problems, but more complex driver issues may require updating or reinstalling the driver through Device Manager or Windows Update.
Why doesn’t the msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic command work?
If the command no longer works, your version of Windows 11 may have removed or disabled the legacy MSDT troubleshooter. Use the troubleshooters in Settings and Device Manager instead.
Can the troubleshooter repair faulty hardware?
No. It can only fix software and configuration issues. If a device has a physical defect, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
