How to Disable USB Port Power After Shutting Down Your Computer or Laptop

When shutting down a computer or laptop, some USB ports may remain powered, which can be inconvenient if peripheral devices continue to operate and consume energy. Disabling USB port power can be done in several ways, depending on BIOS settings, the operating system, and other device parameters. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you address this.

Method 1: Adjusting BIOS/UEFI Settings

To disable USB power through BIOS/UEFI, follow these steps:

  1. Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing Delete, F2, F10, or another key (varies by device model).
  2. In the Power Management section (or similar, depending on BIOS version), look for an option related to USB ports. It may be called "USB Power On During S4/S5", "USB Wake Support", or something similar.
  3. Disable this option. Typically, disabling this setting stops power from being supplied to USB ports when the device is off or in sleep mode.
  4. Save your changes and reboot your computer.

Once these steps are complete, the USB ports should no longer receive power when the device is powered down.

Method 2: Configuring Power Options in Windows

You can also manage USB power settings through Windows, especially for sleep or hibernate modes:

  1. Open Control Panel and go to Power Options.
  2. Select your current power plan, then click on Change advanced power settings.
  3. In the USB settings section, expand USB selective suspend setting and choose "Enabled".
  4. Apply your changes and restart your computer.

This option allows the system to cut USB power when entering sleep mode.

Method 3: Disabling Power via Device Manager

Another method is to manage power settings through Device Manager:

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Under Universal Serial Bus controllers, find the USB Root Hubs.
  3. Right-click each hub, select Properties, and go to the Power Management tab.
  4. Check the box for "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power" for each hub.
  5. Save the settings and restart your computer.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Software to Manage USB Ports

Specialized programs such as USBDeview or DevCon offer advanced management of USB ports, including scheduled or conditional power-off options.

Use these tools carefully, as incorrect settings may cause issues with USB device connectivity.