Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems (Code 43)

Sometimes you may see this error message: Windows has stopped this device because it has reported problems (Code 43).

This usually means that the driver (which does NOT come from Seagate; this driver comes from Windows) has lost communication with the drive or the driver has crashed.

To resolve this problem, please follow this procedure:

Desktop:

  • If you are using a desktop computer, connect the drive directly to the back of your computer.
Note: Is best not connect the drive to the front ports of your computer, on a USB hub or a switch.
  • Try again
Notebook:
  • For notebook computers, simply try all the different USB ports available.
  • Replace the USB cable and try again.
 
Other available steps:
  1. Run diagnostics on the drive. If the drive fails the diagnostics, replace it.
  2. Update your computer's USB drivers. See Document ID: 218931 for instructions.

If the drive functions properly when directly connected to the computer but not when connected via a USB hub, and if you need to use a hub, try a powered USB hub, which may allow the drive to operate better.
You may also try connecting only the drive to the USB hub, then reconnecting your other devices one at a time to narrow down where the problem lies.