The ERROR_PNP_RESTART_ENUMERATION (636) message signals that Windows 11 detected a device removal or disconnection, requiring the system to restart hardware enumeration. This issue often surfaces when connecting or disconnecting peripherals like cameras, microphones, or USB drives, and typically points to driver conflicts, hardware issues, or corrupted system files. Addressing the root cause not only restores device functionality but also prevents recurring interruptions during daily tasks.

Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

Step 1: Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager from the menu that appears. Device Manager provides a comprehensive overview of all hardware connected to your computer and flags problematic drivers with a warning icon.

Step 2: Expand each hardware category by clicking the arrow next to it. Carefully scan for any devices marked with a yellow exclamation point, which indicates a driver problem.

Step 3: Right-click on each problematic device and select Update driver. In the dialog that appears, choose Search automatically for drivers. Windows will attempt to find and install the latest compatible driver.

Step 4: If updating does not resolve the issue, right-click the device and select Uninstall device. After uninstalling, restart your PC. Windows will automatically reinstall the device with default drivers, which often resolves persistent conflicts.

Step 5: After updating or reinstalling drivers, restart your computer to ensure changes take effect. Check if the ERROR_PNP_RESTART_ENUMERATION message reappears when using the affected hardware.

Troubleshoot Hardware Connections

Step 1: Open Settings by pressing Windows + I. Navigate to System and scroll down to Troubleshoot.

Step 2: Select Other troubleshooters. Here, you’ll find dedicated troubleshooters for common hardware categories such as Bluetooth, Camera, and Audio.

Step 3: Click Run next to the troubleshooter that matches your problematic device. Follow the on-screen instructions to allow Windows to detect and resolve hardware conflicts or configuration errors.

Step 4: If the error appeared after physically connecting or disconnecting a device, double-check all cables and ports. Securely reconnect the device, ensuring no loose or damaged connections. Sometimes, simply reseating a USB cable or peripheral restores normal functionality.

Scan and Repair System File Corruption

Step 1: Press the Windows key, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator. This step is necessary to grant the tool permission to repair protected system files.

Step 2: In the Command Prompt window, enter the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

This command scans all protected system files and replaces corrupted files with a cached copy. The scan may take several minutes, depending on your system’s speed and file integrity.

Step 3: When the scan completes, review the results. If the tool reports that it found and repaired corrupt files, restart your PC. If it finds issues it cannot fix, consider running the DISM tool for deeper repairs.

Restore Windows to a Previous State

If you set up a restore point earlier, before the problem started, you can use it to revert your PC to when the problem did not exist.

Step 1: Press the Windows key, type Control Panel, and open it. Go to Recovery, then select Open System Restore.

Step 2: In the System Restore wizard, choose a restore point created before the ERROR_PNP_RESTART_ENUMERATION issue began. Confirm your selection and click Next.

Step 3: Review the affected programs and drivers, then start the restore process. Your PC will restart and revert to the selected restore point, undoing recent changes that may have triggered the error.

Caution: This process removes recently installed programs and drivers. Back up important data before proceeding to avoid accidental data loss.

Advanced Troubleshooting (Optional)

If the previous methods do not resolve the issue, consider these advanced steps:

  • Check your BIOS settings to ensure hardware configuration matches your system’s requirements. Incorrect SATA or USB settings can interfere with device enumeration.
  • Disable Fast Startup via Control Panel > Power Options > System Settings, then uncheck Turn on fast startup. This can help if device initialization is inconsistent during boot.
  • Use specialized driver update tools or third-party repair software if you suspect deeply rooted driver conflicts.

Regularly updating drivers and keeping system files intact prevents most device enumeration errors. If the error persists after these steps, consider seeking help from Microsoft support or a trusted technician for further diagnosis.