New USB Flash Drive not showing up in File Explorer or Disk Management

Hello DianaBored,

Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

Here are some possible solutions to the problem that your new USB flash drive doesn't show up in File Explorer or Disk Management in Windows 11:

1. Check device compatibility

Try a different port: Although most USB 3 devices can be connected to a USB 2 port, some devices may require a more compatible port to work properly. Try plugging the USB flash drive into a different USB port (such as a USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 port) to see if there is any improvement.

2. Update drivers

Given that you can't update using Device Manager and Windows Update didn't solve the problem, it is recommended that you visit the manufacturer's website of the USB drive to see if there is an adapted driver update.

3. Check power settings

There is a setting in power options that may cut off power when you insert a USB drive, causing it to not show up. You can disable the USB selective suspend feature by following these steps:

Open the Start menu, type "Edit power plan", and select the top result.

Click the "Change advanced power settings" option.

In power options, expand "USB settings" and change the "USB selective suspend" setting option to "Disabled".

Click "Apply" and "OK", then restart your computer to apply these changes.

4. Check the USB device itself

Try another computer: Insert the USB flash drive into another computer to check if it works properly on the other computer. If it doesn't work, there is a high probability that the USB drive itself has a hardware failure and you may need to replace the USB drive.

If none of the above methods can solve the problem, you may need to consider contacting the manufacturer of the USB flash drive or seeking professional technical support to further diagnose the problem.

Best Regards,

William.Y | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Sorry, but the problem has been caused by the Windows 11 24H2 update that's causing a lot of USB issues. Most of my USB connection have stopped working, and the USB don't show anywhere within Windows Device Manager or File Manager since the 24H2 installation. However, the USB port will charge the external device. I cannot roll back to any earlier version and the recovery option is no longer available. The USB drivers are up to date as is Windows 11.