How to Fix Network Adapter ‘this device cannot start. (code 10)’?

This error typically arises when there’s a problem with the device’s connection to the computer or when the driver is not compatible or is malfunctioning. Network adapters are often affected by this error; in some cases, Windows may fail to recognize them, or they may cease to operate correctly due to driver issues.

1. Disable or Enable the Device

To resolve the error, try disabling and then re-enabling the malfunctioning driver in Device Manager. This quick reset can often restore functionality if a device appears enabled in Windows but isn’t working properly.

1. Right-click the Start Menu and select Device Manager.

   

2. In Device Manager, right-click the driver with the error and select Disable device.

   

3. After disabling, right-click the driver again and choose Enable device.

   

4. Check if the error code 10 is resolved.

2. Power Cycle Your Machine

Power cycling involves a complete shutdown and restart of the computer to reset its state. When hardware like a network adapter stops working suddenly, this can clear temporary software glitches or malfunctions that might be causing the device to be unresponsive. Essentially, it refreshes the system’s memory and potentially resolves any driver or hardware issues interfering with normal operation.

2.1 Desktop

1. Shut down your computer and disconnect the power cable along with other peripherals.
2. Hold the power button for 15 to 30 seconds.
3. Reconnect the power cables and turn on your computer, then check if the device operates correctly.

2.2 Laptop

1. Turn off your laptop and, if possible, remove the battery.
2. Press and hold the power button for 15 to 30 seconds.
3. Power on the laptop and check if the error has been resolved.

3. Reinstall the Driver

Driver-related issues often stem from corruption or incompatibility. Removing the problematic driver and rebooting the computer prompts Windows to automatically reinstall a fresh version of the driver, which can often resolve these issues. This process refreshes the driver software, potentially eliminating any errors and restoring device functionality.

1. Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue.
2. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter to open Device Manager.

   

3. Right-click on the malfunctioning driver and choose Uninstall device.

   

4. Confirm the uninstallation by clicking Uninstall.
5. Restart your computer. Windows should reinstall the driver upon boot, which may solve the problem. If the issue remains, consider trying other methods.

4. Download the Driver from the Manufacturer

If the error persists, obtain and install the driver from the manufacturer’s website, as this ensures compatibility. For a network adapter issue, you’ll need to use a different computer to download the driver and transfer it to your affected computer using a USB drive.

Identify your system model number to locate the correct drivers:

1. Press Win + R, type msinfo32, and hit Enter to open the System Information window.

   

2. Locate and copy your System Model information.

   

3. Visit the official manufacturer’s website and search for drivers using the model number you copied.
4. Download the appropriate driver.

   

5. Return to Device Manager, uninstall the current driver, and then install the newly downloaded driver.
6. Verify if the error has been corrected.

5. Run Hardware and Component Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in troubleshooters designed to automatically identify and fix various technical issues. The specific troubleshooter you run will depend on the nature of the problem you’re addressing.

1. Open the Start Menu and type in Troubleshooting settings.

   

2. Access the Troubleshooting settings and click on Additional troubleshooters.

   

3. Choose the relevant troubleshooter and select Run the troubleshooter.

   

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to address the specific issue you’re facing.
5. If the problem isn’t resolved, use the hardware troubleshooter by pressing Win + R and typing:

   msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic

   

6. After detecting issues, the troubleshooter will provide solutions.

   

6. Use a System Restore

If none of the previously mentioned methods work, consider restoring your Windows using a system restore point that was created when the devices were functioning correctly. If no restore point is available, the next option would be resetting Windows. However, ensure that the device is correctly connected and free of any hardware issues before proceeding.

1. Click the Start Menu and type in Rstrui.

   

2. Access the System Restore settings by pressing Enter.
3. Select Next and choose a restore point.

   

4. Click Next, followed by Finish to start the restore process.

   

   Note: System restoration can take some time as it reverts Windows to a prior state and may require a computer restart.