Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

An I2C HID Device error usually means Windows cannot initialize an internal input device that communicates over the I2C bus. The visible symptom may be a dead touchpad, an unresponsive touchscreen, missing gestures, or a yellow warning icon in Device Manager.

The affected device is not always listed literally as I2C HID Device. Check both Human Interface Devices and Mice and other pointing devices. A touchpad may be listed as a touchpad or another HID entry, while a touchscreen normally appears as HID-compliant touch screen.

Work through the fixes in order. Start with Windows Update and a restart, then update or reinstall the relevant driver. If the problem started immediately after an update, rolling the driver back is often the better first move.

1. Restart Windows and check the device status

A restart can clear a temporary I2C controller or HID initialization failure. Use Start > Power > Restart, not merely sleep or hibernation.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Amazon Basics Wired QWERTY Keyboard, Works with Windows, Plug and Play, Easy to Use with Media Control, Full-Sized, Black
  • KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
  • EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
  • VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
  • SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
  • FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.

After Windows starts:

  1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
  2. Look for a yellow warning icon under Human Interface Devices.
  3. Also expand Mice and other pointing devices, especially if the touchpad is not working.
  4. Double-click the suspected device. The Device status box on the General tab shows the error code and its exact message.

Record the code before changing anything. “I2C HID Device” is a bus-related name, not a diagnosis by itself.

2. Install Windows and optional driver updates

Windows Update is Microsoft’s recommended source for driver updates. Optional updates are particularly important when the normal update check does not repair a touchpad or touchscreen.

Windows 11

  1. Open Start > Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options.
  2. Under Additional options, turn on Receive updates for other Microsoft products.
  3. Return to Windows Update and select Check for updates.
  4. Return to Advanced options and select Optional updates, if it is available.
  5. Select the available driver updates and choose Download and install.
  6. Restart the computer after installation, even if Windows does not request it.

Windows 10

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options.
  2. Under Update options, turn on Receive updates for other Microsoft products when you update Windows.
  3. Return to Windows Update and select Check for updates.
  4. If shown, select View optional updates, choose the driver updates, and select Download and install.
  5. Restart Windows.

Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Existing Windows 10 installations continue to run, but standard feature and security updates are no longer provided. Eligible consumer PCs may use Extended Security Updates through October 12, 2027; that does not restore normal Windows 10 support.

3. Update the device in Device Manager

Device Manager may not find the newest driver, but it is a useful next step and can sometimes connect the device to Windows Update.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  1. Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Human Interface Devices and inspect the entries with warning icons.
  3. For a touchpad, also inspect Mice and other pointing devices.
  4. Right-click the relevant device and select Update driver.
  5. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  6. If Windows does not find one, select Search for updated drivers on Windows Update when that option appears.

If the device has no warning icon but the touchpad or touchscreen is still dead, update the corresponding user-facing entry rather than assuming the item must be named I2C HID Device.

Rank #2
Sale
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black
  • All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
  • Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
  • Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
  • Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
  • Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*

4. Install the laptop manufacturer’s driver

For laptops, the manufacturer’s support page may provide a device-specific HID, touchpad, chipset, Serial IO, or I2C-related driver that Windows Update does not offer. Search using the exact model number printed on the laptop or shown in Settings > System > About.

Download the driver only from the computer manufacturer’s official website. It must match your Windows version and system architecture, such as 64-bit Windows 11.

For a driver package that extracts to a folder rather than installing automatically:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Right-click the affected device and select Update driver.
  3. Choose Browse my computer for drivers.
  4. Select Browse… and choose the folder containing the downloaded driver files.
  5. Select OK, verify the folder path, and select Next.

Do not use third-party “driver updater” sites. They can provide mismatched or unsafe packages and make it harder to identify the original fault.

5. Reinstall the affected device

Reinstalling is useful when the driver is present but its installation or device configuration is damaged. Microsoft’s touchpad procedure uses this method to force Windows Update to download the latest touchpad driver.

Rank #3
Rii RK907 Ultra-Slim Compact USB Wired Keyboard for MAC and PC-Black(1PCS)
  • A plug-and-play USB connection with Low-profile keys give you a quiet, comfortable typing experience
  • Simple Wired USB Connection,You will enjoy a comfortable and quiet typing experience
  • The keyboard for business and office working is the budget-friendly keyboard that is built for longer use
  • Low profile keys for a more comfortable and quiet keystroke, desktop-centric design, splash resistant
  1. In Device Manager, right-click the affected HID, touchpad, or pointing-device entry.
  2. Select Uninstall device.
  3. In the Uninstall Device window, select Uninstall.
  4. Restart using Start > Power > Restart.

Windows will attempt to detect and reinstall the device after the restart. Uninstalling the device does not necessarily mean that the driver package has been permanently removed; the documented procedure is to uninstall the device, restart, and allow Windows to reinstall it.

If Windows does not rediscover it, open Device Manager and choose Action > Scan for hardware changes.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

6. Roll back the driver after a recent update

Use rollback when the touchpad, touchscreen, or other input function worked before a Windows or driver update and stopped immediately afterward. You need administrator permission.

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand the category containing the affected device.
  3. Right-click the device and select Properties.
  4. Open the Driver tab.
  5. Select Roll Back Driver.
  6. Choose a reason, select Yes, and restart if prompted.

The rollback button may be unavailable if Windows has no previous driver to restore. In that case, install the previous package from the laptop manufacturer’s support page if one is available.

7. Re-enable a touchscreen

A disabled touchscreen appears as HID-compliant touch screen under Human Interface Devices. It is not necessarily the same thing as an entry named I2C HID Device.

Rank #4
Sale
Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black
  • Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
  • Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
  • Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
  • Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
  • Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
  1. Open Start > Device Manager.
  2. Expand Human Interface Devices.
  3. Right-click HID-compliant touch screen.
  4. Select Enable device.

If multiple HID-compliant touch screen entries are listed, repeat the operation for each one. If the touchscreen is intentionally disabled, the same menu contains Disable device.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

8. Match the Device Manager error code to the likely fix

Code Meaning Practical next step
1 Device is not configured correctly. Update or reinstall the driver.
9 Windows cannot identify the hardware. Install the manufacturer’s driver or contact the hardware vendor.
10 Device cannot start. Update, reinstall, or roll back the driver; check the manufacturer’s support package.
12 Insufficient or conflicting hardware resources. Restart, install firmware updates, and check BIOS or manufacturer guidance.
14 Device needs a restart. Restart Windows.
18 Driver needs to be reinstalled. Uninstall the device, then scan for hardware changes or restart.
19 Device configuration information is incomplete or damaged. Reinstall the driver; use manufacturer support if it remains.
21 Windows is removing the device. Wait, press F5 in Device Manager, and restart if necessary.
22 Device is disabled. Use Action > Enable Device or right-click the device and enable it.
24 Device is missing, malfunctioning, or incompletely installed. Reinstall the driver and check for a hardware or connection problem.
28 Driver is not installed. Install the OEM driver, then scan for hardware changes.
29 Firmware did not provide required resources. Check the BIOS and the computer manufacturer’s instructions.
31 Windows cannot load the required driver. Update or reinstall the driver.
35 System firmware lacks configuration information. Check for a BIOS update from the computer manufacturer.
37 Windows cannot initialize the driver. Reinstall the driver.
40 Driver service information is missing or incorrect. Uninstall and reinstall the driver.
41 Driver loaded, but Windows cannot find the hardware. Restart, scan for hardware changes, and investigate hardware or firmware.
45 Hardware is not connected. Reconnect the device if it is external; an internal device may need OEM or hardware service.

Code 10 deserves special care: it does not prove that the driver is corrupted. It is a generic startup failure. The manufacturer may provide a more specific failure reason, so the laptop’s OEM driver and firmware are important when the normal reinstall does not help.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

9. Use PnPUtil when Device Manager is inconclusive

Advanced users can inspect Windows’ driver store and device state from an elevated Terminal or Command Prompt. Right-click Start, choose Terminal (Admin), and approve the permission prompt.

List third-party driver packages:

pnputil /enum-drivers

On Windows 11, you can filter by class and include package files:

pnputil /enum-drivers /class <name-or-GUID> /files

List devices with problems:

pnputil /enum-devices /problem

To inspect a specific device, first copy its instance ID from Device Manager’s Properties > Details > Device instance path, then use commands such as:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
Lenovo 300 USB Keyboard, Wired, Adjustable Tilt, Ergonomic, Windows 7/8/10, GX30M39655, Black
  • The Lenovo 300 USB keyboard offers an intuitive and comfortable island key design with 2 5 zone layout including separate number pad
  • This full-size keyboard includes concaved key caps fitted for your fingertips
  • Spill resistant keys with a board drain help keep your PC keyboard protected and keep you productive
  • The complete ergonomic design includes an adjustable tilt to improve your typing comfort
  • OS independent – This convenient computer keyboard works with laptops desktops and any computer with a USB port
pnputil /restart-device

FAQ

What is an I2C HID Device?

It is a Human Interface Device connected through the I2C bus. Windows may use that path for an internal touchpad, touchscreen, sensor, or another input component. The visible device name is not always I2C HID Device.

Where is the I2C HID Device in Device Manager?

Check Human Interface Devices first, then Mice and other pointing devices. A touchpad can appear in either category. A touchscreen normally appears as HID-compliant touch screen under Human Interface Devices.

Does Code 10 mean the I2C HID driver is corrupted?

No. Code 10 means Windows could not start the device and is a generic status. Update or reinstall the driver, check the OEM package and BIOS, and consider hardware failure if the error persists.

Will uninstalling I2C HID Device delete my driver permanently?

Not necessarily. Microsoft’s documented procedure is to uninstall the device and restart. Windows then attempts to detect and reinstall the driver.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Why is my touchscreen missing from Device Manager?

It may be disabled, not detected, or affected by a driver, firmware, or hardware problem. Look for HID-compliant touch screen under Human Interface Devices, enable every matching entry, scan for hardware changes, and install the manufacturer’s chipset, Serial IO, HID, or touchscreen driver.

The Bottom Line

Start with a full restart and Windows Update, including optional updates. Then update or reinstall the correct entry in Device Manager, checking both HID and pointing-device categories. Roll back instead of updating when the failure began immediately after an update. If the device still reports Code 10, 12, 29, 35, 41, or 45 after the correct OEM driver and firmware are installed, the problem may involve BIOS configuration, hardware resources, a disconnected internal component, or hardware failure rather than a simple driver defect.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
SaleBestseller No. 2
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black
Logitech K120 Full Size Wired Keyboard USB Plug-and-Play Windows - Black
Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*; Product carbon footprint: 4.02 kg CO2e
$12.34
Bestseller No. 3
Rii RK907 Ultra-Slim Compact USB Wired Keyboard for MAC and PC-Black(1PCS)
Rii RK907 Ultra-Slim Compact USB Wired Keyboard for MAC and PC-Black(1PCS)
Simple Wired USB Connection,You will enjoy a comfortable and quiet typing experience
$9.99
SaleBestseller No. 4
Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black
Logitech MK120 Full Size Wired Keyboard and Mouse Combo - Black
Product carbon footprint: 5.03 kg CO2e
$17.77
SaleBestseller No. 5
Lenovo 300 USB Keyboard, Wired, Adjustable Tilt, Ergonomic, Windows 7/8/10, GX30M39655, Black
Lenovo 300 USB Keyboard, Wired, Adjustable Tilt, Ergonomic, Windows 7/8/10, GX30M39655, Black
This full-size keyboard includes concaved key caps fitted for your fingertips; The complete ergonomic design includes an adjustable tilt to improve your typing comfort
$12.79

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.