I’ve run into a really annoying issue. My Device Manager keeps refreshing (the whole window flashes and the device list collapses) roughly every 2–5 seconds. It makes it impossible to actually do anything like disable a driver, uninstall a device, or even just read the device names.
This driver is frequently linked to infinite device manager loops. Windows 10/Device Manager keeps refreshing - Microsoft Q&A
A few years ago, I was in the middle of a very important recording session for a client. Everything was going smoothly until my audio interface—a high-end external sound card—suddenly disconnected. The playback stopped, the recording software froze, and I heard the familiar Windows "device disconnected" chime. device manager keeps refreshing
If the refreshing stops, to pinpoint which device triggers the refresh loop. 2. Perform a "Cold" Reboot
Look for devices that are connecting and disconnecting every few seconds. This tool will highlight the specific USB device or controller responsible. 4. Disable Error Reporting Services I’ve run into a really annoying issue
As a test, I unplugged the USB cable from the guitar end (leaving the cable plugged into the PC). The flickering stopped instantly. The Device Manager froze, stable and calm.
I realized the refresh rate was steady—about once every second. It wasn't random; it was rhythmic. I looked down at my desk. Right next to the USB hub was my trusty old guitar. I had it plugged into a USB interface cable to record some direct demos earlier. This driver is frequently linked to infinite device
If you cannot identify the device physically, you can use a tool to log USB connections.
Power Management tab of these hubs. Advanced Diagnostic Tools If you can't see the device in time, use these third-party tools to "catch" it: USBDeview : Shows a list of all currently and previously connected USB devices. Sort by "Last Plug/Unplug Date" to find the one cycling. DevManView : An alternative to Device Manager that doesn't flicker as much and can show you exactly when a device's "Connect Time" was last updated. Would you like instructions on how to
Fixed it – turned out my Wi-Fi/Bluetooth adapter driver was crashing and re-initializing every few seconds. Disabled it in Safe Mode, reinstalled the correct driver, and the refreshing stopped.
Specifically regarding chipset or USB controllers.