Cause of the Code 28 Error
A Code 28 error is caused by a missing driver for that particular piece of hardware. There are any number of reasons that a driver might not be installed for a device but your troubleshooting of the problem will be the same no matter the root cause.
Resolution
- Restart your computer if you haven't done so already.
There is always the slim chance that the Code 28 error you're seeing in Device Manager was caused by a fluke with Device Manager or in your BIOS. If that's the case, a reboot might fix the Code 28.
- Did you install a device or make a change in Device Manager just before you noticed the Code 28? If so, it's very possible that the change you made caused the Code 28 error.
Undo the change, restart your PC, and then check again for the Code 28 error.
Depending on the changes you made, some solutions might include:
- Remove or reconfigure the newly installed device.
- Roll back the driver to the version prior to your update.
- Use System Restore to undo recent Device Manager changes.
- Update the drivers for the device. Installing the latest manufacturer supplied drivers for a device with the Code 28 error is the most likely solution to the problem.
Important: Make sure you install the drivers for the correct operating system. For example, if you're using Windows 7 32-bit, install the drivers designed for that specific version of Windows. Many Code 28 errors are caused by attempting to install the wrong drivers for a device.
- Install the latest Windows service pack. Microsoft regularly releases service packs and other patches for their operating systems, one of which may contain a fix for the cause of the Code 28 error.
Note: I do know that certain service packs for Windows Vista and Windows 2000 have contained specific fixes for some instances of the Code 28 error in Device Manager.
- Replace the hardware. As a last resort, you may need to replace the hardware that has the Code 28 error.
It's also possible that the device is not compatible with this version of Windows. You can check the Windows HCL to be sure.
Note: If you still think there is still a software/operating system component to this Code 28 error, you could try a repair install of Windows. If that doesn't work, try a clean install of Windows. I don't recommend doing either of those more drastic options before you try replacing the hardware, but you may have to if you're out of other options.
Please let me know if you've fixed a Code 28 error using a method that I don't have above. I'd like to keep this page as updated as possible.
Applies To
The Code 28 error could apply to any hardware device in Device Manager but most Code 28 errors seem to affect USB devices and sound cards.
Any of Microsoft's operating systems could experience a Code 28 Device Manager error including Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and more.
Still Having Code 28 Issues in Device Manager?
Let a community of computer support enthusiasts help out! Post the details of your problem in the PC Support Forum. Be sure to let us know that the exact error you're receiving is the Code 28 error in Device Manager. Also, please let us know what steps, if any, you've already taken to try to fix the problem.
----------------------------------------------let me know if this helps--------------------------------------------
Hello ljas,
what is your computer model?
We may need to update your sound drivers.
×