Device Driver Cannot Be Loaded: Code 39 Error

The Code 39 error in Windows Device Manager usually indicates a problem with the device driver. This can occur if the driver is corrupted, missing, or incorrectly installed. In this guide, we’ll cover the main causes of this error and provide steps to fix it.

Main Causes of Code 39 Error

  • Corrupted or missing driver files.
  • Failed driver installation or update.
  • Conflict between various device drivers.
  • Incorrect entries in the Windows Registry.

How to Fix Code 39 Error

1. Reinstall the Device Driver

The first step is to uninstall and reinstall the driver for the device with the error.

  1. Open Device Manager (press Win + X and select Device Manager).
  2. Locate the device with the error, right-click on it, and select Uninstall device.
  3. After uninstalling, restart your computer to allow the system to automatically reinstall the correct driver.

2. Update or Roll Back the Driver

If the error appeared after updating the driver, try rolling it back. If the driver is outdated, updating it may help.

  1. Right-click on the device in Device Manager and select Properties.
  2. Go to the Driver tab and choose either Update or Roll Back Driver.

3. Use Windows Troubleshooter

Windows’ built-in troubleshooter can help diagnose and fix driver issues.

  1. Open Settings, go to Update & Security, and select Troubleshoot.
  2. Choose Hardware and Devices and follow the on-screen instructions.

4. Check the Windows Registry

Sometimes, Code 39 errors are linked to incorrect entries in the registry. Be cautious, as changes to the registry can impact the system.

  1. Open the Registry Editor (Win + R, type regedit).
  2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class.
  3. Find and delete the UpperFilters and LowerFilters values in the right pane.
  4. Restart your computer.