How to Fix VirtualBox Error: USB Device Enumeration Errors

Using Oracle VirtualBox allows you to run multiple operating systems on virtual machines. However, you might encounter an error when attempting to add USB devices to your virtual machine. This error prevents the virtual machine from recognizing or communicating with the connected USB device. This article explores the common causes of this issue and provides step-by-step solutions to help you regain access to your USB devices within your virtual environment.

Common Error Messages

When VirtualBox fails to enumerate USB devices, you might encounter various error messages, including:

• "Can't enumerate USB devices..."

• "Failed to enumerate host USB devices"

• "Could not load the Host USB Proxy Service (VERR_FILE_NOT_FOUND). The service might not be installed on the host computer."

• "Result Code: E_FAIL (0X00004005) Component: HostWrap Interface IHost {...}"

These error messages indicate that VirtualBox is unable to properly access or manage USB devices connected to your host computer.

Troubleshooting Steps

Here's a breakdown of the common solutions to fix VirtualBox's inability to enumerate USB devices:

1. Restart the Host Computer

Sometimes, a simple reboot of your host computer can resolve minor glitches that might be interfering with USB device recognition. Restart your computer and then try adding the USB device to your virtual machine again. If the issue persists, proceed to the next solution.

2. Reinstall the USB Driver on the Host Computer

A corrupt or outdated USB driver can cause VirtualBox to struggle with USB device enumeration. Follow these steps to reinstall the driver:

• Disconnect the USB device from your host computer.

• Open Device Manager: Search for "Device Manager" in your Start menu and open the application.

• Locate the USB controller: Expand the "Universal Serial Bus controllers" section and right-click on the USB device you disconnected.

• Uninstall the device: Choose "Uninstall device" from the context menu.

• Reconnect the device: Plug the USB device back into your host computer. Windows should automatically reinstall the driver.

• Verify the resolution: Check if VirtualBox now recognizes the USB device.

3. Update or Downgrade VirtualBox

Specific versions of VirtualBox might have known issues related to USB device enumeration. If you're using VirtualBox 7.0.10, consider upgrading to the latest version (7.1.0 or later) if your workflow allows. If you're unable to update, try downgrading to an older version of VirtualBox.

4. Install the Extension Pack

To enable the use of host USB devices within a virtual machine, you must install the VirtualBox Extension Pack. If you haven't already installed it, download it from the official VirtualBox website (virtualbox.org). Follow these steps:

• Open VirtualBox.

• Access the Extension Pack Manager: Go to "File > Tools > Extension Pack Manager."

• Select the extension pack: Navigate to the location where you downloaded the Extension Pack and choose the file.

• Install the pack: VirtualBox will begin installing the Extension Pack.

• Verify the resolution: After the installation completes, try adding the USB device again.

5. Enable USB Controller

If you've inadvertently disabled the USB controller in your virtual machine settings, you need to enable it again. Here's how:

• Open VirtualBox.

• Access virtual machine settings: Right-click on the virtual machine you want to configure and choose "Settings."

• Enable USB Controller: Navigate to the "USB" section and check the box for "Enable USB Controller."

• Select the controller version: Choose the desired version of the USB controller.

• Save the settings.

• Verify the resolution: Test if the USB device is now recognized.

Understanding the Problem

Why can't I access USB in VirtualBox?

Several factors can prevent you from accessing USB devices in VirtualBox. The most common reason is simply not enabling USB support for the specific virtual machine.

How to enable a USB device in VirtualBox:

• Open VirtualBox and right-click on the virtual machine.

• Go to Settings > USB and check the box for "Enable USB Controller."

• Save the settings.

Further Troubleshooting

If you've followed all the steps above and still experience problems, consider these additional troubleshooting tips:

• Check for conflicts: If you have multiple USB devices connected, try disconnecting all but the one you want to use in your virtual machine.

• Try a different USB port: If your host computer has multiple USB ports, try plugging the device into a different port.

• Verify USB device drivers: Ensure that the drivers for your USB device are up to date on your host computer.

• Contact VirtualBox support: For more complex issues, you might need to contact VirtualBox support for assistance.

By following these comprehensive troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve USB device enumeration errors in VirtualBox and regain access to your USB devices within your virtual environments. Remember to check for updates, install the Extension Pack, and verify that USB support is enabled for your virtual machines.