How To Resolve Hardware Device Starting Error On Windows?

To resolve the "Windows cannot start this hardware device because its configuration information (in the registry) is incomplete or damaged" error (Code 19), follow these steps:

1. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter:

   • Press Windows + I to open Settings.
   • Navigate to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
   • Locate Hardware and Devices and click 'Run the troubleshooter'.

2. Uninstall and reinstall the driver:

   • Press Windows + R to open the Run command.
   • Type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter to open Device Manager.
   • Locate the problematic device with a yellow exclamation mark.
   • Right-click it, choose 'Uninstall device' and confirm the uninstallation.
   • Unplug the device (if applicable) and allow Windows to automatically scan for new hardware changes. The system should then reinstall the driver automatically.

3. Refresh or restore Windows configuration:

   • Press Windows + I to open Settings.
   • Go to Update & Security > Recovery > Advanced Startup Options (or to Settings > System > Recovery).
   • Click 'Restart now' under 'Advanced startup' (or use `Shift + Click Restart' in Windows 10 and earlier versions).
   • Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Restore.
   • Perform a system restore if available or revive your system to a previous restore point if applicable, but remember to create a backup before attempting these steps.

4. Check for Driver Updates:

   • Press Windows + x to open Device Manager.
   • Right-click on the device, then select 'Update Driver'.
   • Choose 'Search automatically for updated driver software'.
   • If that doesn's:

5. Ensure all necessary drivers are present and correct:

   • Check for recently added or removed hardware, uninstall and reinstall the device driver if necessary.
   • Ensure Windows is up-to-date and look for missing drivers in Device Manager.

6. If the above steps do not resolve the issue, consider running the System File Checker (SFC) (from the Command Prompt as administrator):

   • Open Command Prompt as administrator.
   • Type sfc /scannow (omit) and press Enter to scan the system integrity.

This process will resolve the Code 19 issue by fixing configuration information in the registry, removing driver inconsisten## Resolving the error may also require multiple attempts, so combine these steps with an internet search and consult manufacturer support materials for your specific device model.