Upgrading RAM is a pretty smart way to bolster your PC’s performance. Though it works reliably, there are instances where the RAM upgrade turns into a frustrating affair. Recently, a handful of users have complained that the USB port is malfunctioning post the RAM upgradation.
When this issue occurs, it triggers unexpected hardware issues related to USB, audio, or HDMI ports. So, if you’ve just installed new memory and found that your ports aren’t working in Windows 11, try out these 8 effective ways to resolve the issue. Read on…
Fix Ports Not Working After Installing RAM in Windows 11
This usually happens due to hardware conflicts, BIOS issues, or static-related problems during RAM installation.
1. Reseat the RAM Modules
First and foremost, make sure that the RAM has been perfectly set up. If it hasn’t been set in the right way, it can cause hardware communication issues.
- Shut down your PC completely and unplug it from the power source.
- Open the case and carefully remove the RAM sticks.
- Reinsert the modules firmly until they click into place.
- Reboot your system and check the ports to find out if it has come back on track.
2. Check for Static Discharge Issues
Static electricity during RAM installation can affect motherboard components.
- To get going, shut down your PC and unplug it.
- Up next, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds to discharge residual electricity.
- Boot the system again and test the ports.
3. Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings
Changes in RAM may affect BIOS hardware configurations, which can disable ports. To get rid of this issue, try resetting the BIOS/UEFI settings on your device.
- To begin, restart your PC and enter BIOS by pressing the designated key (often Del or F2).
- Look for an option like “Load Optimized Defaults” or “Reset to Default.”
- Save changes and exit BIOS.
4. Update Chipset and USB Drivers
Driver mismatches can result in ports failing to work after a hardware change.
- Press Windows + X and choose Device Manager.
- Expand “Universal Serial Bus controllers” or “System Devices.”
- Right-click and update drivers for your chipset and USB controllers.
- Then, restart your PC.
5. Run Windows Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Note that Windows can let you detect and fix hardware problems on its own.
- To do so, press Windows + R to launch the Run dialog.
- After that, type
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic, and hit Enter. - Then, follow the on-screen instructions to detect and fix hardware issues.
6. Uninstall and Reinstall USB Controllers
Keep in mind that your corrupted USB controller drivers may be preventing the USB port from functioning properly.
- Open Device Manager on your PC > expand “Universal Serial Bus controllers.”
- Right-click each USB controller and select Uninstall device.
- After that, make sure to restart your PC to reinstall them automatically.
7. Check BIOS for Port Settings
It’s important to mention that some BIOS configurations offer ways to enable/disable onboard ports. Therefore, I’d recommend you check the BIOS for port settings and ensure that they are perfectly fine-tuned.
- Enter BIOS/UEFI setup on startup and navigate to the Advanced or Peripherals section.
- Now, ensure USB, Audio, and other relevant ports are enabled.
- In the end, do not forget to save and exit BIOS.
8. Perform a System Restore
If the issue started only after RAM installation and nothing else worked, a system restore can help.
- Simply, press Windows + S and search for “Create a restore point.”
- Head over to System Restore and select a restore point before the RAM upgrade.
- Next up, let the system revert and then test your ports again.
Wrapping up..!
And that’s about it! Installing new RAM should enhance your computer, not break it. If your ports stopped working right after a RAM upgrade, the issue is often hardware misalignment, BIOS confusion, or driver errors.
By carefully following the steps above, you can troubleshoot and fix the problem without rolling back your upgrade. Always handle PC components with care and double-check BIOS and driver settings after any hardware change.
