Table of Contents
- Are You Making This Common Mistake When Accessing Device Manager in Windows?
- Ways to Open Device Manager in Windows
- Method 1: Quick Access Menu
- Method 2: Run Command (Devmgmt.msc)
- Method 3: Settings App
- Method 4: Windows Search Bar
- Method 5: Task Manager
- Method 6: Task Scheduler
- Method 7: Create a Shortcut
- Extra Tips for Smooth Access and Maintenance
Are You Making This Common Mistake When Accessing Device Manager in Windows?
Device Manager lets you see, update, and troubleshoot the hardware devices inside your Windows computer. If you ever run into problems with your mouse, keyboard, or need to fix a driver, knowing several ways to open Device Manager helps you stay productive and avoid headaches. Each method works with just a keyboard, mouse, or even if some controls aren’t working. Use these options if you want a smooth workflow or need a backup plan when something fails.
Ways to Open Device Manager in Windows
Method 1: Quick Access Menu
- Hold the Windows + X.
- Click on “Device Manager.”
- If your mouse works, right-click the Start button and choose “Device Manager.”
This method is quick and works even if you can’t type or your mouse is unreliable.
Method 2: Run Command (Devmgmt.msc)
- Press Windows + R to open Run.
- Type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter.
This option launches Device Manager fast if you remember the command.
Method 3: Settings App
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Type “Device Manager” in the search box.
- Click it or press Enter.
Useful if you spend time in the Settings app already.
Method 4: Windows Search Bar
- Click the search bar at the bottom or tap the Windows key.
- Type “Device Manager.”
- Click the correct item.
Works for anyone who prefers searching, not clicking through menus.
Method 5: Task Manager
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click “Run new task.”
- Type devmgmt.msc in the dialog and press OK.
- You can tick the box to run as administrator if needed.
Helps when dealing with driver errors or hardware issues and you want admin privileges.
Method 6: Task Scheduler
- Press Windows + R, type taskschd.msc, and hit Enter.
- In Task Scheduler, right-click the library and create a new folder.
- Inside your new folder, click “New Task.”
- On the General tab, select “Run with highest privileges.”
- Go to Triggers, click “New,” and set your schedule.
- Under Actions, click “New,” set Program/script to mmc.exe, and add devmgmt.msc as the argument.
- Confirm to save.
Best for system administrators or anyone who wants Device Manager to open automatically for routine checks.
Method 7: Create a Shortcut
- Right-click your desktop or any folder.
- Select New > Shortcut.
- Enter devmgmt.msc as the location.
- Click Next and give it a name.
- Double-click the new icon to open Device Manager anytime.
Useful if you need constant, single-click access.
Extra Tips for Smooth Access and Maintenance
- If your mouse fails, try keyboard shortcuts or Run command methods.
- If your keyboard fails, rely on mouse-based options such as right-clicking the Start button.
- Organizing shortcuts on your Start Menu or desktop saves time.
- For unknown devices, open Device Manager, right-click the item, and search online for details.
- Regular checks through scheduled tasks can catch hardware issues early.
Device Manager access is simple once you know where to look. Follow these steps to never get stuck, even if hardware stops working. A little preparation goes a long way toward reliable, frustration-free computer use.