ByIntroduction
Properly scanning for hardware changes in the Windows operating system is crucial for system stability, performance, and driver management. Whenever new hardware is added, such as a USB device, graphics card, printer, network adapter, or storage drive, Windows needs a scanning process to recognize it and apply the correct drivers. Here, we present 7 of the most reliable and professional methods for scanning for hardware changes in Windows, which will prove useful for every user.
1. Scanning for Hardware Changes via Device Manager
Device Manager is one of Windows’ most powerful tools, allowing you to control all hardware-related information.
Steps:
Press Windows + X
Open Device Manager
Click on Action in the top menu
Select Scan for hardware changes
This process immediately allows Windows to recognize all connected and new hardware. If a device wasn’t previously detected correctly, this method will activate it.
Key Benefits:
Quick resolution of driver problems
Fast detection of Plug & Play devices
No system restart required
2. Scanning for Hardware from Command Prompt (CMD)
For advanced users, Command Prompt is a fast and reliable option.
Command Process:
Search for `cmd` in the Start Menu
Open Run as Administrator
Type the following command:
“`
devcon rescan
“`
This command instructs the system to rescan all hardware.
Advantages:
Ideal for IT professionals
Useful in scripting and automation
No reliance on a graphical user interface (GUI)
3. Detecting Hardware Changes with Windows PowerShell
PowerShell is an advanced tool in modern Windows systems that makes hardware management even more controlled.
Steps:
Windows + X → Windows Terminal (Admin)
Run the following command:
“`
Get-PnpDevice -PresentOnly
“`
This command displays a list of all active hardware devices present in the system. Features:
Real-time hardware status
Useful for network and remote management
Enterprise-level control
4. Hardware Driver Scan via Windows Update
Sometimes Windows Update automatically finds new hardware drivers.
Process:
Open Settings
Go to Windows Update
Click on Check for updates
If new hardware is connected, Windows downloads the compatible drivers for it.
Benefits:
Automatic driver installation
Latest and secure updates
No manual effort required
5. Verifying Hardware Changes from BIOS/UEFI
If Windows is not recognizing the hardware, the problem might not be with the OS but at the BIOS/UEFI level.
How to check:
Restart the system
Open BIOS by pressing DEL / F2 / F10
Check for the new device in the Hardware Configuration section
If the device is visible in the BIOS, then there is a driver problem in Windows.
Importance:
Confirms physical hardware detection
Checks at the motherboard level
Resolves critical issues
6. Using Third-Party Hardware Detection Tools
Many professional tools scan hardware more deeply than Windows.
Popular tools:
HWInfo
Speccy
AIDA64
These tools provide a complete report of the CPU, GPU, RAM, Motherboard, and connected devices.
Advantages:
Deep hardware analysis
Real-time monitoring
Helpful in troubleshooting
7. System Restart and Plug & Play Reset
Sometimes the simplest method is the most effective.
How to do it:
Completely shut down the system
Remove the power cable
Restart after 1-2 minutes
This process resets Windows’ Plug & Play mechanism. Benefits:
Resolution of temporary glitches
Clearing the hardware cache
Successful detection of new devices
Common Hardware Scan Problems and Solutions
Problem: Device not showing up
Solution: Update drivers
Problem: Unknown Device is displayed
Solution: Download drivers from the manufacturer’s website
Problem: The USB device is repeatedly disconnecting
Solution: Check Power Management settings
Conclusion
Scanning for hardware changes in Windows is not just a technical process, but a crucial part of maintaining a stable and fast system. We have explained in detail the 7 most effective and proven methods above, which any user can use to easily resolve hardware-related problems. By using the correct method, you can save time, resources, and improve performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Scan for Hardware Changes in Windows?
Scan for Hardware Changes is a Windows process that allows the system to identify newly connected or changed hardware devices and load the necessary drivers for them. This process is especially useful when a device is not automatically detected.
2. When should I use Scan for Hardware Changes?
You should use Scan for Hardware Changes whenever:
A new USB device, printer, or hard drive is added
A hardware device does not appear in Device Manager
A device doesn’t work after installing drivers
Hardware problems occur after a system upgrade
3. Can Scan for Hardware Changes delete data?
No, Scan for Hardware Changes is a completely safe process. It does not delete or damage any data. It only performs hardware detection and driver refresh.
4. Where can I find the Scan for Hardware Changes option in Device Manager?
After opening Device Manager:
Click on the Action menu at the top
You will see the Scan for hardware changes option there
This option is available in all Windows versions (Windows 10, Windows 11).
5. What to do if Scan for Hardware Changes doesn’t work?
If this option is not working, you can:
Restart your system
Update drivers through Windows Update
Scan for hardware using Command Prompt or PowerShell
Reconnect the hardware
These methods usually resolve most problems.
6. Is it necessary for the hardware to be visible in the BIOS?
Yes, if a hardware device is not visible in the BIOS/UEFI, Windows will not be able to recognize it. The hardware being visible in the BIOS ensures that the device is physically connected correctly.
7. What is the difference between Scan for Hardware Changes and Windows Update?
Scan for Hardware Changes performs immediate hardware detection
Windows Update downloads the latest drivers for the hardware
Both are complementary and work together to provide better results.
8. Is using Third-Party Software safe?
If you use reliable and popular tools like HWInfo, Speccy, or AIDA64, they are completely safe. These tools provide in-depth information about your hardware.
9. Is the process different for laptops and desktops?
No, the “Scan for Hardware Changes” process is almost the same for both laptops and desktops. Only the BIOS access key might be different.
10. How often should I run “Scan for Hardware Changes”?
It doesn’t need to be done frequently. Only do it when:
New hardware is added
A device is not working
Problems arise after driver installation
