How to Fix DS4Windows Not Working on Windows 11 [6 Methods] (2024)

Is your DS4Windows not working on Windows 11? Ensure your PC meets all of the system requirements and that your Bluetooth drivers are up to date.

DS4Windows is a virtual emulator that allows you to connect Xbox 360 and PlayStation controllers to your PC with a user-friendly interface and a simple UI.

Playing video games on a PC with Xbox controllers is enormous fun. But when you can’t connect your DualShock4 or PS5 controller to Windows, it turns out to be a real bummer. You may see the unpleasant No Controllers Connected (Max 4) or DS4 not detecting controller error message on your screen.

Many gamers have complained about DS4Windows connection issues or received compatibility errors. It’s a bit annoying, but it can be solved.

So, how should you troubleshoot this problem? Is something missing, or are there any hardware issues? Here, we prepare you a quick walk-through to fix the DS4Windows not working on Windows 11. Let’s jump straight into it.

Method #1: Check System Requirements

Thanks to its X86- 64 based platform, Windows 11 supports DS4Windows. However, to ensure that the program operates efficiently, you should check its essential requirements before installing it. Your PC needs the following requirements to run DS4Windows properly:

  • Microsoft .NET 5.0 Runtime or above.
  • Visual C++ 2015-2019 Redistributable.
  • Virtual Gamepad Emulation Framework (ViGEmBusv.1.17.333.0 ) driver or higher.
  • Compatible controllers (DualShock 4, Ps5 supported Xbox controllers).
  • Micro USB cable or a compatible Bluetooth connection (Windows built-in or an adaptor).
  • Disabling PlayStation Configuration Support option in Steam.

Method #2: Update your Bluetooth drivers

Your outdated Bluetooth drivers are one of the reasons your DS4WINDOWS isn’t working. To do this, first, make sure that your Bluetooth adapter is switched on. To update your Bluetooth drivers, you can use some of these driver updaters software or press Window + R hotkeys to launch the Run app and then follow the steps below:

Step 1: Type devmgmt.msc in the Run box to access your Device Manager.

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Step 2:Next, look for the Bluetooth category.

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Step 3: Select Update driver from the context menu when you right-click on the Bluetooth device you want to update.

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Step 4: Now, opt for Search automatically for drivers. However, if you already have your drivers on your Windows, choose to Browse my computer for drivers.

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Step 5: After updating the driver, run DS4Windows app to see if it’s fixed.

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Method #3:Update your DS4Windows

To update DS4Windows, use the DS4Updater app included in the DS4Windows directory.

Step 1: To find the DS4Updater app, first browse to the location where you unzipped and installed DS4Windows.

Step 2: Following that, double-click on the DS4Updater to launch it.

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Step 3: Once it opens up, the update will begin.

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After finishing the update process, restart your computer and see if the DS4Windows are working correctly. If not, proceed to the next step.

Method #4:Reinstall DS4WINDOWS

If you were unable to update your DS4Windows or were unsuccessful with that method for whatever reason, we recommend reinstalling the DS4Windows app. To Reinstall your DS4windows first, you need to remove them.

Uninstalling DS4Windows

While deleting DS4Windows is not challenging, it is not as straightforward as removing other applications.

Step 1: To get started, first, you need to uninstall a driver. Open the Start menu, type Control Panel, and press Enter to access the Control Panel.

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Step 2: Then click on Programs and Features.

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Step 3: In the Programs and Features window, look for Nefarius Virtual Gamepad Emulation Bus Driver.

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Step 4: After that, double-click on it and then select Yes to begin the uninstalling process.

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Step 5: The next step is to remove all DS4Windows files from your computer. To do so, navigate to the directory into which the file was unzipped and installed.

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Step 6: After you’ve selected the DS4Windows folder, you can either delete it by choosing the trash icon after right-clicking on it or by pressing the delete key on your keyboard.

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Step 7: Next, type %Appdata% into File Explorer and hit Enter.

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Step 8: Afterwards, you’ll be taken to the Roaming directory. To complete the uninstall of DS4Windows, locate and delete the DS4Windows folder.

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Reinstalling DS4Windows

Step 1: First, download the DS4Windows file from Github.

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Step 2: Following that, extract the downloaded Zip file.

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Step 3: Open the extracted file and double-click on the DS4Windows.exe.

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Step 4: Next, a dialog box pops up and asks you to select where to save profiles and settings. So, opt for Appdata.

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Note: You may encounter a .NET Runtime error message. As discussed early in this article, .NET 5.0 Runtime is a prerequisite for this program. So, if you see the error, download .NET 5.0 Runtime.

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Step 5: In this stage, follow the instructions given in the Welcome to DS4Windows steps to finish the installation.

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Step 6: Afterwards, you may look at the Settings tab and select the Hide DS4 controller button for double input connection issues.

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It’s now time to see if DS4Windows is functioning correctly. If you’re still having problems with the app, continue to the next step.

Method #5: Re-enable controller in device manager

If you still have problems detecting the controller, we suggest that you head over to the next solution, i.e., re-enabling the DS4 controller. To begin, do these steps:

Step 1: To launch the Run prompt, right-click on the Start menu and select Run, or press the Windows + R keys simultaneously.

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Step 2: Now, type devmgmt.msc in the box and hit Enter.

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Step 3: Double-click on Human Interface Devices to see the drivers.

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Step 4: Following that, right-click on the HID-compliant game controller and select Disable device.

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Step 5: After a few seconds, right-click on the HID-compliant gaming controller again but select Enable device this time.

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Step 6: Now, you can reset your computer to see if you are still getting DS4Windows, not working errors.

If this method doesn’t work, move on to the next solution.

Method #6:Restore Windows to the Previous State With RSTRUI.exe

Although this solution is not suggested, it is considered a last resort. You should be aware of losing personal data or some installed programs after Restoration. Anyway, to restore your Windows with the Rstrui.exe file, follow the below steps:

Step 1: Open your Run box by pressing Windows+R keys on your keyboard or right-click on the Start menu and select Run.

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Step 2: Now, Type RSTRUI and click OK to launch System Restore.

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Step 3: Following that, click Next.

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Step 4: You have two options at this stage. You can either select a date before installing DS4Windows or a date when it was working.

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Note: When you restore your computer to its previous state, it will impact other apps as well. As a result, make a backup of your important data. You may also use the Scan for Affected Programs button to learn more about the changes.

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Step 5: After selecting the desired time and date, click Next.

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Step 6: Select Finish to begin restoring your computer to the specified time and date.

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Step 7: Once the process is finished, your computer will restart to apply the changes. Afterward, if DS4Windows is available on your computer, check to see if it is working. However, if you selected a date when you did not have the app on your PC, you can install it now.

Step 8: Next, restart your computer and see if the error has been resolved.

Final Words

DS4Windows is an emulator application that connects Xbox 360 and PlayStation controllers to Windows 11. However, there are times when you encounter an annoying DS4Windows not working error message on Windows 11.

As detailed in this article, there are several methods for resolving the DS4Windows not working issue.

However, the first three methods—checking the system requirements, updating the Bluetooth driver, and updating the DS4Windows application—have been shown to fix the problem for most users.

How to Fix DS4Windows Not Working on Windows 11 [6 Methods] (2024)

FAQs

How do I fix DS4Windows not working on Windows 11? ›

Best Ways to Fix DS4Windows Not Detecting Controller on Windows 11
  1. Fix 1: Check System Requirements.
  2. Fix 2: Use DS4Windows App.
  3. Fix 3: Re-Enabling DS4 Controller.
  4. Fix 4: Update PC Drivers.
  5. Fix 5: Run the DS4Updater.
  6. Fix 6: Reinstall the DS4Windows Tool.
  7. Fix 7: Update Windows.
Dec 12, 2022

Why is Windows 11 not detecting ds4? ›

From the “Device Manager,” select “Human Interface Devices.” Right-click on “HID-compliant game controller” and click “Disable device.” Go to “HID-compliant game controller” again and select “Enable device.” Reconnect your controller and open “DS4Windows.” Check if your controller is detected.

Does DS4Windows work with Windows 11? ›

Thanks to its X86- 64 based platform, Windows 11 supports DS4Windows. However, to ensure that the program operates efficiently, you should check its essential requirements before installing it. Your PC needs the following requirements to run DS4Windows properly: Microsoft .

Why is my DS4Windows not working? ›

DS4 Windows will fail to detect your PS4 if your controller is disabled. To check if this is the culprit, you can go to Device Manager. 1) Right-click the Start menu and select Device Manager. 2) Expand Human Interface Devices and right-click HID-compliant game controller, then select Enable device.

How do I get my PS4 controller to recognize Windows 11? ›

Access the Bluetooth menu on your PC via the system tray. Click "Add Bluetooth or other device." Click "Bluetooth." Select the DualShock 4 controller from the list that pops up.

How do I enable controller on Windows 11? ›

With the Start panel open in Windows 11, select Settings > Bluetooth & devices. Toggle the Bluetooth option on. Select Add device to find and add your Xbox controller.

Does Windows 11 support PS5 controller? ›

Connecting the PS5 Controller to Your PC With Bluetooth

Here's how you can connect your PS5 controller to your PC through Bluetooth: In Windows 10 or Windows 11, go to Settings. Click on Add a device. Select Bluetooth.

Does Windows 11 require DirectX 11? ›

Graphics card: Compatible with DirectX 12 or later, with a WDDM 2.0 driver. System firmware: UEFI, Secure Boot capable. TPM: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0. Display: High definition (720p) display, 9" or greater monitor, 8 bits per color channel.

Does Windows 11 support DirectX? ›

Compatible with DirectX 12 or later with WDDM 2.0 driver. High definition (720p) display that is greater than 9” diagonally, 8 bits per color channel. Windows 11 Pro for personal use and Windows 11 Home require internet connectivity and a Microsoft account during initial device setup.

Does Windows 11 have controller support? ›

Windows 11

For best performance, update your controller. Supported via USB, Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows, and Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows 10.

Why wont my DS4 connect to my PC? ›

If your PC is using an older version of Bluetooth or you have added the Bluetooth functionality using an external adapter, the PS4 controller might not be able to connect. Do not worry, as you can use a USB cable to connect. Make sure you have Steam or DS4Windows to support the controller before connecting the device.

What is the real DS4Windows? ›

Welcome to DS4Windows

DualShock4Windows is a portable program that allows you to get the best experience while using a PS4 Controller (or any of the supported gamepads) on your PC. By associating your connected controller to one fully re-mappable virtual Xbox 360 or DualShock 4 gamepad, many more games are accessible.

Why won t ds4 detect my controller? ›

Your controller may appear here under a different name or icon. If this is the case, your PC may not be able to detect the controller for a number of different reasons: Your USB port is faulty or broke, on the controller or PC. Your USB cable doesn't support data transfer, only power.

How do I force my PS4 controller? ›

Hold down on the PS button on the controller for 10 seconds

We recommend that you put the PS4 controller away once it's no longer being used as if you click on the PS button again while it is off, the controller will turn back on.

How do I know if my controller is working on Windows 11? ›

Use the Windows Search Tool

If you want to open the game controller settings using this tool, follow these steps: Press Win + Q on your keyboard. Type "USB game controllers" in the search box and select the result from the list.

Does Windows allow PS4 controller? ›

You can connect a DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller to a Windows PC using a DUALSHOCK®4 USB wireless adaptor or a compatible micro USB cable.

How do I update my controller driver Windows 11? ›

Open the Xbox Accessories app. Connect your Xbox Wireless Controller by using a USB cable or the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. When the controller is connected, you'll see the message Update Required if an update is mandatory. Install the update.

What game controller works with Windows 11? ›

8Bitdo Ultimate Wired Controller for Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Windows 10 & Windows 11 - Officially Licensed (White)
  • xbox controller.
  • xbox controller wireless.
  • xbox one controller.
  • xbox series x controller.

How do I install a USB controller on Windows 11? ›

How do I reinstall USB drivers in Windows 11? USB drivers in Windows 11 can be reinstalled manually and automatically. To reinstall manually, open Device Manager > double click Universal Serial Bus controllers > Uninstall device > Uninstall > restart PC Windows will reinstall the USB driver.

How do I reinstall display adapter driver Windows 11? ›

Reinstall the device driver
  1. In the search box on the taskbar, enter device manager, then select Device Manager.
  2. Right-click (or press and hold) the name of the device, and then select Uninstall.
  3. Restart your PC.
  4. Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.

Why doesn t my controller work on Windows 11? ›

Without question, the very first thing you must do when you find out that your Windows PC is unable to recognize your gamepad is restart the gamepad. This is the same as turning the gamepad off, if it has an on/off button, and turning it back on. If that does not work, you can plug it into a different port.

Do PC games recognize PS5 controller? ›

You can use a controller with your PC, too, and while the Xbox Wireless Controller is often considered the best, you can also connect the PS5 DualSense controller to your PC if you want to.

How much RAM does Windows 11 need? ›

RAM: 4 GB. If your PC has less than 4GB of memory, there are sometimes options for upgrading to get additional RAM. You may want to consult your PC manufacturer's website or with a retailer to see if there are easy and affordable options to meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11.

Is Windows 11 better than 10? ›

Windows 11 is worth the update for most people. It comes with a wide range of new features, performance improvements, and design changes. As the latest Windows OS, it usually gets more attention than Windows 10, too. There's not too much risk in upgrading to Windows 11, either.

How much RAM does Windows 11 use? ›

On average, Windows 11 uses about 4 GB of RAM.

This requires a fair amount of RAM to run, so it's not surprising that Windows 11 uses more memory at some points. While it's true that Windows 11 uses more RAM than Windows 10, it doesn't mean that it's a bad operating system.

Is DirectX 11 good for gaming? ›

Most games will default to using DirectX 11 for compatibility purposes, but it's a good idea to change over to DirectX 12 mode. The only exception is if you have an older PC dating back 10 or more years. Older hardware may run smoother on DirectX 11, or DirectX 12 may not provide much of a benefit at all.

Does DirectX 11 use more CPU? ›

In DirectX 11, there are dependencies between these different states. As a result, one state cannot be completed until the previous state is defined. This decreases GPU utilization and increases CPU overhead at the cost of performance.

Is DX12 only on Windows 11? ›

DirectX 12 Ultimate is the newest version of DirectX. DirectX 12 Ultimate is the exclusive software component of Windows 11.

Which Windows 11 has Remote Desktop? ›

Important: Remote Desktop is not a feature available on Windows 11 Home, only on Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise. If you have the Home edition of Windows 11, you can use the Chrome Remote Desktop as an alternative.

How do I calibrate my PC controller? ›

How to Calibrate Your Gaming Controller Using the Control Panel
  1. Open game controller settings on Windows.
  2. Select your controller from the list and click the Properties button.
  3. Under the Settings tab, click the Calibrate button.
  4. Click Next to initiate the calibration process.
Jun 5, 2023

Does Windows 11 home not support Remote Desktop? ›

Your Home Edition of Windows 11 (10) Does Not Support Remote Desktop: What to Do? Since your Home Edition of Windows 11/10 doesn't support Remote Desktop, you can upgrade Home to Pro to enable Remote Desktop or just switch to third-party free remote desktop software.

How do I connect my DS4Windows controller? ›

Using DS4Windows for non-steam games
  1. Download Microsoft . ...
  2. For Windows 7, get Xbox 360 controller driver.
  3. Plug controller in via USB cable or Bluetooth dongle.
  4. Download DS4Windows and extract.
  5. Open DS4Windows.
  6. Check connection in the Controllers tab.
  7. In Settings tab Hide DS4 Controller.
  8. Set Use Xinput Ports to one.

Why is my ps4 not working? ›

Unplug the power cable

To manually restart your console, follow these steps: Make sure your PS4 is completely off, with no lights turned on or flashing. Unplug the power cable from your console for at least 30 seconds. Plug the cable back in and press the power button on the front of your device to try restarting it.

What is ps4 controller drift? ›

Stick drift on your PlayStation controller is a common problem. Controllers with stick drive seem to be moving on their own when you open the map in Warzone, for example, or when your character walks by themselves. Luckily, there are a number of solutions to get rid of stick drift.

Does DS4 cost money? ›

DS4 is the best free game pad input mapper, virtual emulator and customizer available. Giving you the power to take control!

Is DS4 discontinued? ›

The DualShock 4 controller has been discontinued in Japan since January 2021. For the rest of the world, however, both the PS4 and its various accessories are still available to purchase – and that's unlikely to change until Sony can ship satisfactory numbers of PlayStation 5 consoles.

Is DS4 the best controller? ›

What is the best PS4 controller? While we've found that the best all-rounder for most people is the DualShock 4, The Nacon Revolution Unlimited, is incredibly flexible and has excellent functionality for PS4 games and for playing on PC. It also provides an asymmetrical feel which some Xbox players may be used to.

Why is my controller not working on Windows 11? ›

Without question, the very first thing you must do when you find out that your Windows PC is unable to recognize your gamepad is restart the gamepad. This is the same as turning the gamepad off, if it has an on/off button, and turning it back on. If that does not work, you can plug it into a different port.

How do I enable jack detection in Windows 11? ›

Head over to the Playback tab and right-click on an empty space. Choose Show Disabled Devices from the context menu. You should now be able to locate your headphones. Right-click on them and choose Enable from the options available.

What to do if activation key doesn't work Windows 11? ›

If you didn't manage to activate Windows 11 with your activation key, you can run the Activation troubleshooter to fix the problem. To access it, launch Windows Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other trouble-shooters. There, find the Activation troubleshooter and click Run next to it.

How do I resolve driver incompatibilities in Windows 11? ›

Top 6 Ways to Fix Incompatible Drivers Error for Memory Integrity in Windows 11
  1. Enable Memory Integrity via Group Policy Editor. ...
  2. Enable Optional Features on Windows 11. ...
  3. Perform a Clean Boot. ...
  4. Update Incompatible Drivers. ...
  5. Use Security Processor Troubleshooting. ...
  6. Update Windows 11.
Dec 11, 2022

What controller is best for Windows 11? ›

The Xbox Wireless Controller is the best PC game controller for most players, as it just simply works. With wired, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, it can connect to just about every gaming device in your home; with a comfortable, ergonomic grip, you can hold it for hours at a time.

How do I update my controller firmware on Windows 11? ›

Open the Xbox Accessories app. Connect your Xbox Wireless Controller by using a USB cable or the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. When the controller is connected, you'll see the message Update Required if an update is mandatory. Install the update.

How do I disable jack detection in Realtek Windows 11? ›

Using Realtek HD Audio Manager

What is this? On the lower right of the Realtek HD Audio Manager, click on the Connector Settings (wrench icon). On the Connector Settings window, tick the slider on the Disable front panel jack detection to disable the headphone jack.

How do I install Realtek audio driver? ›

Visit the Realtek website to find the drivers corresponding with your system version and then download the driver manually. Once you've downloaded the correct drivers for your system, double-click on the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.

How do I reinstall audio drivers on Windows 11? ›

To update the audio driver on Windows 11 from the Settings app, use these steps:
  1. Open Settings on Windows 11.
  2. Click on Windows Update.
  3. Click the Advanced options page.
  4. Under the “Additional options” section, click the Optional updates setting.
  5. Select the audio driver to update.
  6. Click the “Download and install” button.
Dec 29, 2022

How to activate Windows 11 without product key using cmd? ›

How to Activate Windows 10/11 with CMD
  1. You have to open the command prompt on your system first. Then, click and start and simply type "CMD". Now, run it as administrator.
  2. Type the following command. slmgr /ipk. slmgr /skms kms.xspace.in. Slmgr /ato. Now press enter. This command will activate your Windows 10/11.
Apr 13, 2023

Is it OK to use Windows 11 without Activation? ›

You can use Windows 11 indefinitely without activating it with a license, but you'll see "Activate Windows" watermarks and reminders and lose access to many personalization settings. Despite this, core functionality including updates and the ability to install your own apps and games won't be affected.

How do I set Windows 11 to compatibility mode? ›

To run an old app in compatibility mode on Windows 11, open Start search for the app, right-click, and select “Open file location,” right-click the executable and choose “Properties,” and in the “Compatibility” tab, check “Run this program in compatibility mode” and select the mode (Windows 95, 98, XP, Vista, 7, or 8).

How to install OEM USB driver in Windows 11? ›

USB drivers in Windows 11 can be reinstalled manually and automatically. To reinstall manually, open Device Manager > double click Universal Serial Bus controllers > Uninstall device > Uninstall > restart PC Windows will reinstall the USB driver.

How do I manually install graphics drivers Windows 11? ›

Using Device Manager

Open the Windows menu and type the phrase device manager. Open the Device Manager from the results. Click Display adapters in the drop-down menu, right-click on your GPU, and select Properties. Navigate to the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

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