This Device Has Failed and Is Undergoing a Reset (Code 54): Complete Fix Guide

The 'This device has failed and is undergoing a reset (Code 54)' error often occurs when Windows is unable to properly initialize a device. In this guide, you will learn how to identify and resolve the error code 54. Perfect for both tech novices and experienced users to restore your device to normal working status.

By @Aria
Last Updated February 2, 2026

Introduction

 

Laptop Bluetooth works normally on start-up, but after an inconsistent amount of time, the Bluetooth gets disabled and the following error appears in device manager: This device has failed and is undergoing a reset. (Code 54). Restarting the laptop fixes the issue momentarily since on the subsequent boot, the same issue happens after some time.

I tried updating my Bluetooth drivers, bios, and windows. but no vail. Did anyone have a similar issue or have an idea on how to fix it?

- Question from Narukegogeta

The "This device has failed and is undergoing a reset. (Code 54)" error is a common issue that many Windows users face. It typically appears when a device or component in your system has failed during its reset process. This error is often seen in Bluetooth devices, network adapters, and USB devices, but it can occur with any device that uses drivers or needs to be initialized after a restart or reset.

The error typically causes temporary or permanent loss of functionality in the faulty device. If this issue occurs on a USB drive or other external hard drives, it may block the read and write processes, potentially leading to failed file transfers or even file corruption. This error is accompanied by a yellow exclamation mark. Open Device Manager, and you’ll see a yellow exclamation mark next to the faulty device; in its "Properties" panel, you’ll find this Code 54 error displayed.

Common Causes of Code 54 Error

The error message "This device has failed and is undergoing a reset. (code 54)" in Windows typically refers to an issue with a device (usually a storage or peripheral device) that is failing to function properly, and Windows is attempting to reset it. It can occur due to several reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

🔌Driver Issues: Outdated or corrupt drivers are the leading cause of device reset failures. If the drivers are not compatible with the system, the device will fail to reset properly, leading to error code 54.

⚔️Hardware Conflicts: When multiple devices or peripherals are trying to share the same resources (e.g., IRQ channels, USB ports), they can cause conflicts, triggering this error.

⚙️System Settings: Incorrect or misconfigured system settings related to device power management can cause the reset process to fail.

🛠️BIOS Issues: Outdated or improperly configured BIOS settings can cause devices to fail during the reset process.

Operating System Problems: Sometimes, Windows itself might be having trouble completing the reset process due to system file corruption or update issues.

How to Resolve "This Device Has Failed and Is Undergoing a Reset. (Code 54)"

Now that you understand why Code 54 occurs, it’s time to fix the frustrating issue. This section offers serval effective methods to resolve the "this device has failed and is undergoing a reset (code 54)" error. let’s dive into the detailed solutions and get your device working again.

Restart Your Computer

Before diving into more complex solutions, a simple restart can sometimes resolve issues with devices undergoing a reset. Restarting can clear up any temporary glitches and help reinitialize the device correctly. Save your open work and click "Restart" to reboot your computer. Then, check if the error still occurs after the reboot.

Update or Reinstall Device

One of the most straightforward solutions to fix the code 54 error is to update the drivers for the device causing the issue. If the drivers are outdated or corrupted, they can cause reset failures. Here's how:

Step 1. Press "Win" + "X" and choose "Device Manager" to open it.

Step 2. Locate the device under the appropriate category (e.g., Network adapters or Disk drives) and right click on the device like Bluetooth, network adapters and select "Update driver".

Step 3. Click "Search automatically for updated driver software" to continue the process.

If there's no updates or update doesn't work, try reinstalling the device driver by selecting "Uninstall device" and restarting your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Re-enable USB Root Hub/Device

Resetting the failed device or root hub (If the error involves a USB device) can resolve issues related to corrupted drivers or conflicts that prevent the device from functioning properly.

Step 1. Open Device Manager and locate your device or "Universal Serial Bus controllers".

Step 2. Right click on the device and choose "Disable device".

Step 3. Wait for a few seconds, and then right-click again to select "Enable device".

Restart Bluetooth Services

If the problematic device is a Bluetooth device, you can also restart the Bluetooth service to reset the device itself, which may resolve the conflict causing the "this device has failed and is undergoing a reset (code 54)" issue.

Step 1. Press "Win" + "R" and enter "services.msc" in the Run dialog, then press "Enter" to open Services window.

Step 2. Scroll down and locate the "Bluetooth Support Service".

Step 3. Right click on it and choose "Restart". Then, check if the error is still here.

Run Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix hardware-related issues, which always trigger the code 54 error. Run the troubleshooter to fix code 54:

Step 1. Press "Win" + "X" and choose "Windows PowerShell (Admin)" to open it.

Step 2. Type the following command "msdt.exe - id DeviceDiagnostic" and hit the "Enter" key. This command will automatically open the "Hardware and Devices" window.

Step 3. Click "Advanced" and check the box of "Apply repairs automatically", then click "Next" to let Windows detect and resolve any issues with your device.

Reset Wireless Connection

If the issue is related to a wireless device (like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth), resetting the wireless connection can help repair the code 54 error. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Locate Command Prompt in the Start menu and right click on it, then choose "Run as administrator".

Step 2. Enter the following command one by one:

  • netsh winsock reset
  • netsh int ip reset
  • ipconfig /release
  • ipconfig /renew
  • ipconfig /flushdns

Restart your computer to check if the code 54 error persists.

Update BIOS/UEFI

If the device is still not functioning and shows the code 54 error, consider updating the BIOS/UEFI firmware. A BIOS/UEFI update can fix hardware compatibility issues and improve device detection.

Step 1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website and find the latest version of your exact model.

Step 2. Download the latest BIOS update on a USB and insert the USB into the problematic computer.

Step 3. Enter BIOS system and select "Update BIOS from Drive", then choose the USB to start the process.

How to Recover Lost Data After Fixing the Error Code 54

If you experience data loss due to this error, particularly with storage devices like hard drives or USB drives, using a reliable data recovery tool like MyRecover can help recover lost files. MyRecover is an excellent solution for recovering data from a damaged, corrupted, inaccessible storage device. It features an intuitive user interface that even novice users can recover lost data with just a few clicks after experiencing data loss.

 MyRecover
Easy & Powerful Data Recovery Software
  • 500+ Devices Supported | SSD, HDD, USB Flash Drive, SD Sard, etc.
  • 1000+ File Formats Supported | PNG, MP4, MP3, TXT, ZIP, MSG, etc.
  • 500+ Data Loss Scenarios | Deletion, Format, System Crash, Virus Attack, etc.

Step 1. Download and install MyRecover on your computer from Microsoft Store or its official site, avoid installing it on the drive with lost files.

Step 2. Run the app and select the drive to scan for lost files, then click "Scan".

Step 3. After the scan is completed, choose the files you attempt to recover from the recoverable lists and click "Recover".

Step 4. Select a safe destination folder (not on the original drive) to save the recovered files.

When the process is done, you can check the recovered files in the destination folder by clicking on the "Browse" button.

Summary

The "This device has failed and is undergoing a reset. (Code 54)" error can occur for a variety of reasons. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you should be able to resolve the error and get your devices working again.

If you’ve lost data during the process, tools like MyRecover can help you recover your files safely and efficiently. For users who need more such as unlimited recovery, the ability to preview files before restoring, MyRecover Professional edition is the ideal choice, offering a complete recovery solution and powerful recovery from unbootable systems.