Code 37: Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware

Updated: June 3, 2010

Applies To: Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista

Device Manager displays the following message in the Device Properties dialog box, on the General tab, in the Device Status text box:

Windows cannot initialize the device driver for this hardware. (Code 37)

Diagnosis

The DriverEntry routine failed when attempted by this driver.

Resolution

Try the following:

  • Uninstall the driver, and then click Scan for hardware changes to reinstall or upgrade the driver.

  • If you have a 64-bit Windows version, ensure that your device driver is properly digitally signed for a 64-bit operating system. If in doubt, contact your device manufacturer.

  • Try searching for “code 37” and your hardware type, name, or model number on the Microsoft support site (https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkID=538). For example, for code 37 issues with a smartcard reader, search for “code 37” smartcard.

  • Contact your device manufacturer for the latest information about using the device with the Windows operating system version that you have.

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