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Windows Error Code 31 indicates a problem with the driver software for certain devices on your system. Updating your drivers can help resolve this issue.
Windows Error Code 31: Update Your Driver Software
Error code 31 displays the following message: “The device isn’t working properly because Windows can’t load the drivers required for the device.”
- Note: This problem usually occurs in connection with network or wireless network adapters. However, you may also receive this error message with other hardware components.
- Download the latest driver for your device from the manufacturer’s website or using the “Check for Updates” feature in your operating system. If this is not possible, you can also use the default drivers that come with Windows.
- If that still doesn’t help, open the Windows Device Manager. You can access it via the Quick Link menu, which you can open with the keyboard shortcut [Windows] + [X]. Select Device Manager from the list.
- Double-click the faulty device (indicated by a yellow circle with an exclamation mark). Switch to the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
- Now choose between Search automatically for updated driver software or Browse my computer for driver software.
- You can use the first option if you want to use the Windows default drivers, and the second option if you have the driver from the manufacturer. In this case, you’ll need to specify the folder where your driver files are located.
- Complete the installation and restart your PC. The driver is now successfully installed.
- Tip: Alternatively, select the Remove device option in Device Manager to completely remove the outdated and possibly corrupted drivers. The next time you start your PC, the device will be installed with the latest driver software.
Windows Error Code 31: Additional Solutions
- Use the built-in troubleshooter, which you can find in the System Settings , to resolve the Windows error message. In Windows 11, simply click System and Troubleshoot.
- If you’re using Windows 10, you’ll find the troubleshooter under Update & Security instead. From there, you can have the error fixed automatically.
- It may also help to simply restart your computer. This can resolve driver issues, especially if you haven’t shut down your PC in a while.
- Note: Back up any data associated with the affected device before running the troubleshooter. Sometimes, data loss can occur while resolving the error message.
