Device Manager Code 28: The drivers for this device are not installed
Windows detected new hardware connected to the motherboard or PCIe bus, but cannot find a matching INF driver package in the local driver store or Windows Update.
Internal desktop parts run on harmless 12V DC voltage and cannot shock you. Simply unplug the wall power cable first, then touch the unpainted metal case frame to ground static electricity.
Common Symptoms & Tells
- Listed under 'Other devices' with a yellow exclamation mark as 'Unknown device' or 'PCI Simple Communications Controller'
- Device status displays: 'The drivers for this device are not installed. (Code 28)'
- Certain motherboard features, audio jacks, or card readers fail to respond
Interactive Fix Checklist
0 of 4 steps completedLook up Hardware ID in Device Properties
Right-click the Code 28 device > Properties > Details tab > Select 'Hardware Ids' in the dropdown. Copy the string (e.g. VEN_8086&DEV_7A60) and search it on devicehunt.com to identify the exact component.
Install Intel Management Engine (ME) or AMD Chipset Driver
'PCI Simple Communications Controller' or 'PCI Device' with Code 28 almost always indicates the Intel Management Engine interface or AMD I2C/GPIO chipset drivers are missing.
Check Windows Optional Updates
Go to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates > Driver updates. Check all available manufacturer drivers and install them.
Run automated hardware driver setup utility
Use the official Intel Driver & Support Assistant or AMD Auto-Detect and Install tool to scan your PCIe bus and automatically install missing drivers.
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