If you’ve ever had trouble with your keyboard, Wi-Fi, printer, or any other hardware on your PC, chances are you’ve been told to check Device Manager. It’s a powerful built-in tool in Windows 11 that lets you manage, update, disable, and troubleshoot hardware devices.
But here’s the big question: How do you open Device Manager in Windows 11? Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think. In this guide, I’ll walk you through multiple methods, so you can choose the one that works best for you.
What Is Device Manager in Windows 11?
Before we dive in, let’s clarify what Device Manager actually does.
- It shows a list of all hardware installed on your computer.
- It lets you update drivers for devices.
- You can enable, disable, or uninstall hardware.
- It’s often used for troubleshooting hardware issues.
Think of Device Manager as the “control center” for your computer’s hardware.
Method 1: Open Device Manager from the Start Menu
This is the most straightforward way.
Steps:
- Click the Start button (Windows icon) on your taskbar.
- Type Device Manager into the search bar.
- Select it from the results.
✅ Done! You’re now inside Device Manager.
Method 2: Use the Quick Link Menu (Win + X)
Windows 11 has a hidden menu with shortcuts to useful tools.
Steps:
- Press Windows + X on your keyboard.
- A menu will appear on the left side of your screen.
- Click Device Manager.
👉 This is one of the fastest methods!
Method 3: Open Device Manager with Run Command
The Run dialog is a handy tool for launching system utilities.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type:
devmgmt.msc - Press Enter.
✅ Device Manager will pop up instantly.
Method 4: Access Device Manager via Control Panel
Yes, the classic Control Panel still exists in Windows 11!
Steps:
- Open the Start menu and search for Control Panel.
- Go to Hardware and Sound.
- Under Devices and Printers, click Device Manager.
Method 5: Use Windows Search (Cortana/Search Bar)
Another simple way is by using Windows Search directly.
Steps:
- Click the Search icon (magnifying glass) on your taskbar.
- Type Device Manager.
- Click the result to open it.
Method 6: Open Device Manager via File Explorer
Even File Explorer can help you launch Device Manager.
Steps:
- Open File Explorer with Windows + E.
- In the address bar, type:
devmgmt.msc - Press Enter.
Method 7: Open Device Manager Using Task Manager
You can also open it from Task Manager if you’re already troubleshooting.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click File → Run new task.
- Type
devmgmt.mscand press Enter.
Method 8: Open Device Manager with Command Prompt or PowerShell
If you like using the command line, this one’s for you.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell.
- Type:
devmgmt.msc - Press Enter.
Which Method Should You Use?
- If you want speed, use Win + X or Run (devmgmt.msc).
- If you prefer searching, the Start menu is easiest.
- If you’re already using Task Manager or Control Panel, you can access it from there.
Conclusion
Now you know how to open Device Manager in Windows 11 using eight different methods. Whether you’re a beginner or a power user, there’s an option that fits your workflow.
So next time your Wi-Fi disappears or your printer acts up, you’ll know exactly how to launch Device Manager and take control.
FAQs
1. What is the fastest way to open Device Manager in Windows 11?
Using Win + X → Device Manager or the Run command (devmgmt.msc) is the quickest.
2. Can I pin Device Manager to the Start menu or taskbar?
Yes! Just search for Device Manager, right-click it, and choose Pin to Start or Pin to taskbar.
3. Do I need admin rights to open Device Manager?
No, but you might need admin rights to make certain changes like updating drivers.
4. Can I open Device Manager without a mouse?
Yes! Press Windows + X, then press M to open it via keyboard only.
5. What if Device Manager doesn’t open?
Restart your PC and try again. If it still doesn’t work, run System File Checker (sfc /scannow) to repair system files.