Windows 10: com ports missing after update

After a W10x64 update my com ports disappeared. I've gone into Device Manager and selected show hidden but no com ports.

I'm using a Dell Inspiron R17 5720 laptop with an Intel C216 chipset.

I cannot find a com driver on either the Dell, Intel or Microsoft web sites.

Somehow there must be a way to create a virtual com port on the USB. This problem must be device specific since my desktop machine is not affected.

When I try the fix mentioned elsewhere, i.e. rescan the devices, install legacy etc I get various results none of which work.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

:)

 

Windows 10 lost COM ports

Hi John,

The issue that you’ve encountered regarding the missing ports on your Windows 10 computer may be caused by some configuration or files mismatched. To sort out your concern, we’d like to know the following information:

• What are the troubleshooting steps you've done so far?
• Which devices are using the COM port on your computer?

Additionally, we suggest that you follow the steps provided in this article on how to perform the
Advanced startup options (including safe mode).
Once you’re on the page, you may proceed with the steps and complete the process. After completing the steps, you may check if you’re able to install the port on your PC properly.

We’re looking forward to your response.

 

USB Port Oddities


Ok, let's see it with pictures step-by-step. First right-click on the USB device and select Update driver software:





Then select Browse my computer for driver software (LAST option) :





The select Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer (LAST option) :





Then select the standard driver from the list and click next:





Click next/OK as required to complete installation. Repeat the steps for all Intel USB devices. Finally click on each USB root device and press DEL to delete it, reply YES when asked. After deleting all USB root devices restart the computer.

I hope this is detailed enough...

 

Port is being blocked

Hi,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community forums.

• Are you aware of any changes that happened on the computer prior to this issue?
  

Upon researching, this seems like an issue due to the port scan. You may want to try the steps listed below and check if it works.

• Login to your Netgear
  NX6200 Extender GUI.
  
• Click on Advanced tab and choose
  WAN Setup.
  
• Check the box for Disable Port Scan and DoS Protection.
  
• Allow it to update and check if the port is still being blocked.
  

However, if the issue persists, I suggest you to post your query in the
TechNet Forums, where we have support professionals
equipped with knowledge on port forwarding.



Regards,