Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do the warning symbols in Device Manager indicate?

A: If there is a problem with a device, it is listed in the hardware tree of the Device Manager. The problem device has a symbol indicating the type of problem:
  • A black exclamation point (!) on a yellow field indicates the device is in a problem state. A device in a problem state can be functioning. A problem code explaining the problem is displayed for the device.
  • A red (X) indicates a disabled device. A disabled device is a device that is physically present in the computer, consuming resources, but does not have a protected-mode driver loaded.
  • A blue (i) on a white field indicates that Use Automatic Settings is not selected for the device and that the resource was manually selected. It does not indicate a problem or disabled state.
  • A green question mark (?) in Device Manager indicates that the driver for this device is installed but not fully functional due to compatibility issues.

Note: This applies only to Windows Millennium Edition. For more information concerning these symbols, refer to TechNet article PSS ID Q133240.