How To See Connected USB Devices On Windows 11: A Simple Guide

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5 min. read

Published on November 7, 2025

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USB devices are essential for expanding the functionality of your Windows 11 computer. From external hard drives and printers to mice and keyboards, these devices connect seamlessly to enhance your computing experience. However, sometimes you might need to verify which USB devices are currently connected to your system, whether for troubleshooting, device management, or simply to ensure everything is working as expected.

This guide provides a straightforward approach to view all connected USB devices on your Windows 11 machine. We’ll explore several methods, including using Device Manager, Settings, and even the command line, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to manage your USB devices effectively.

How Do I See What USB Devices Are Connected to My Windows 11 Computer?

Using Device Manager

Device Manager is a built-in Windows tool that provides a comprehensive overview of all hardware connected to your computer, including USB devices.

Press the Windows key + X.
Select Device Manager from the menu.
In the Device Manager window, look for the Universal Serial Bus controllers section and expand it by clicking the arrow next to it.
You’ll see a list of all USB controllers and connected USB devices. Each device will be listed with its name. If a device has a problem, it will be marked with a yellow exclamation point.
To view more detailed information about a specific device, right-click on it and select Properties.

Checking Through Settings

The Settings app also provides a way to view connected USB devices, though it might not be as detailed as Device Manager.

Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
Click on Bluetooth & devices in the left sidebar.
Scroll down and click on USB.
Here, you will see a list of connected USB devices. You can click on each device to get more information or troubleshoot if needed.

Utilizing Command Prompt

For more advanced users, the command prompt offers a way to list connected USB devices using a simple command.

Press the Windows key, type cmd, and select Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter: wmic path Win32_USBControllerDevice get Antecedent,Dependent
The command will display a list of connected USB devices. The output might be a bit technical, but it provides a comprehensive list of all USB devices connected to your system.

Tips For Managing USB Devices

Safely Remove Hardware: Always use the “Safely Remove Hardware” icon in the system tray before disconnecting a USB device to prevent data corruption.
Update Drivers: Keep your USB device drivers updated to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. You can update drivers through Device Manager.
Troubleshooting: If a USB device isn’t working correctly, try restarting your computer, checking the device’s cable, or reinstalling the device’s drivers.
USB Hubs: Be mindful of the power requirements of your USB devices when using a USB hub. Some devices may require more power than the hub can provide, leading to connectivity issues.

Choosing the Right Method

Each method offers different levels of detail and ease of use. Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Device Manager	Settings	Command Prompt
Detail Level	High	Medium	High
Ease of Use	Moderate	Easy	Advanced
Troubleshooting	Yes, with driver update options	Limited	No direct troubleshooting, but provides details
Best For	Comprehensive device management & troubleshooting	Quick overview of connected devices	Advanced users needing detailed device info

Effectively Seeing Your Connected USB Devices

Knowing how to view connected USB devices on your Windows 11 system is a valuable skill for troubleshooting, managing your hardware, and ensuring everything is functioning correctly. Whether you prefer the detailed view of Device Manager, the simplicity of the Settings app, or the technical depth of the command prompt, these methods empower you to stay in control of your USB devices.

FAQ

How do I know if a USB device is not working properly? If a USB device is not working properly, it may not appear in Device Manager, or it may be marked with a yellow exclamation point.

Can I disconnect a USB device without using the “Safely Remove Hardware” option? It is generally not recommended to disconnect a USB device without using the “Safely Remove Hardware” option, as it can lead to data corruption.

Why is my USB device not showing up in Device Manager? There are several reasons why a USB device may not show up in Device Manager, including driver issues, hardware problems, or a faulty USB port.

How do I update the drivers for my USB device? You can update the drivers for your USB device through Device Manager. Right-click on the device and select “Update driver.”

Is it possible to see USB devices connected to other computers on my network? No, these methods only show USB devices directly connected to your local Windows 11 computer.