How to Fix DS4Windows Not Detecting Controller Windows Issue?

When DS4Windows fails to detect a controller, it usually means that the software isnt recognizing the connected device, even though it might be visible in Windows. This error generally occurs due to outdated or conflicting drivers, such as the ViGEmBus driver required by DS4Windows, or issues with Bluetooth connectivity.

Why Wont DS4Windows Detect the Controller in Windows 10?

There could be several reasons for this problem, which include:

• Windows 10 Update: The latest update of Windows 10 could restrict the use of DS4 Controllers.
• Malfunctioning Device Drivers: DS4 controller device drivers might be malfunctioning, which can be resolved by reinstalling the drivers.
• Controller Disabled by DS4Windows: DS4Windows could accidentally disable the controller from being used in Windows 10.

1. Uninstall and Reconnect DS4 Controller Device

By uninstalling the driver, you remove any potentially corrupt or conflicting settings that might be causing the issue. When you reconnect the DS4 controller after this reset, Windows will attempt to reinstall the drivers as if the device is being connected for the first time.

This can often clear up any problems associated with the controllers inability to connect, essentially allowing for a fresh start in terms of device recognition and functioning.

1. Close DS4Windows and disconnect your DS4 controller, if not already done.
2. Press Win + R keys to open the Run dialogue box, type in control panel, and press Enter.

   

3. In the Control Panel, click on Hardware and Sound. Now, click on Devices and Printers to view all devices connected to your PC.

   

4. Reconnect your DS4 controller to your PC. An icon of a game controller will appear as shown in the image below. Right-click on the icon and select Properties.
   

   

5. Go to the Hardware tab within your DS4 controller properties and double-click HID-compliant game controller to view its properties.

   

6. In the Driver tab, click Uninstall Device to uninstall the game controller. Disconnect it from your PC once completed.

   

7. Re-open DS4Windows on your PC and reconnect your DS4 controller. It should now appear within the Controllers section.
8.  

2. Re-enable DS4 Controller

Some users have experienced this issue during gameplay, i.e., the DS4 controller stops working and becomes disabled automatically. By going into the Device Manager and re-enabling the DS4 controller, you are basically making the device visible and active again, allowing DS4Windows to recognize the controller and re-establish the necessary communication for gameplay.

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialogue box, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter.

   

2. Expand the Human Interface Devices category and double-click on HID-compliant game controller.
3. Enable the controller to have it detected by DS4Windows.

3. Uninstall Windows Update

When you uninstall a recent Windows update, you are basically reverting your computer’s operating system to an earlier state. This may remove any new changes that could be conflicting with DS4Windows and its ability to detect your controller. By rolling back these updates, you’re eliminating any new variables that might be causing the connectivity troubles, potentially restoring your setup to its previously functional configuration.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. In Settings, click on Update & Security.
3. From the left pane, select Windows Update and click on View installed update history.

   

4. Next, click on Uninstall updates. Wait for the installed updates list to populate.
5. Organize the list to show the most recent updates first. Select the problematic update, click Uninstall, and follow the uninstallation wizard. Restart your computer afterward.

4. Uninstall Driver and Set DS4Windows Up

By removing the existing driver, you allow Windows to reinstall a fresh driver upon reconnection. This renewal can often clear any configuration issues or corrupt files that were causing the device to malfunction. After the fresh installation of drivers, setting up DS4Windows makes sure that the controller is configured correctly and recognized properly by your system for optimal performance.

1. Navigate to this link and download the Remote Play App for your PC.
2. If the controller still doesn’t work, press Windows + R, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter.

   

3. Look for a Lib32 Wireless Driver in Device Manager.
4. Right-click on it and select Uninstall Device.

   

5. Reconnect the controller to the PC using a USB cable and allow Windows to install the drivers.
6. Test if the Remote Play App works now. Its functionality could be limited.
7. Disconnect your controller and download DS4Windows.

   

8. Set up DS4Windows using the provided instructions.
9. Reconnect the controller and verify if it is recognized.
10. Select the Hide DS4 option.
    Note: Uncheck the Swipe touchpad to change profile option and check if the issue persists.

5. Scan for Hardware Changes

Scan for hardware changes prompts Windows to re-evaluate all connected hardware devices. This re-evaluation forces the operating system to detect any previously unrecognized connected hardware, such as your DS4 controller, potentially resolving any connection issues that came from drivers that were not properly recognized or installed during initial connection.

1. Press Windows + R keys to open the Run prompt.
2. Type in devmgmt.msc and press Enter.

   

3. Click the Scan for hardware changes button.

   

4. Check to see if the issue has been resolved.