Most Linksys routers have a USB port on it. This port is used to connect external USB storage devices like flash drives, USB flash disks, HDDs, etc. After connecting the USB device, the devices connected to the home network will be able to access the Shared drive device. Is your Linksys router not recognizing USB storage device? There seems to be a trouble with the router or the USB drive that you should address right now. You should use the instructions given in this guide for a quick solution to this problem.
Linksys Router Not Recognizing USB Storage: The Solution!
Let us tell you that the USB storage devices are plug-and-play devices. They do not require any software or prior installation process before using them. As soon as the USB device is inserted into the router, it should be automatically detected. However, in case it is not getting recognized by your Linksys router, then you should try these fixes:
1. Check Device Compatibilty
Not all Linksys router models support all USB storage devices. If the USB device that you have inserted in your router is not compatible with your Linksys router model, then this is the reason why you are getting the issue.
You first need to check the compatibility of the connected devices. In case there is a compatibility issue then use a device that is compatible with your Linksys router model.
2. Use an Alternative USB Storage Device
A possibility is that the USB storage device that you are using is damaged or has some issue with it which is why the Linksys router not recognizing USB storage device. We suggest you try using another USB device to ensure if the issue is with the device or the Linksys router. This will help to get a clear idea about the reason for the problem.
3. Clean the Port
Looks like the USB port on your Linksys router is dirty and hence is not recognizing the devices connected to it. Accumulated dust on the port is one of the main reasons for the issue that we are working on right now.
We suggest you remove the USB storage device for now and using a soft brush clean the port carefully. Be vigilant while doing the cleaning process a you may damage the port.
After that, connect the USB device once again and try to see if it is working now or not. You should access the Linksys router login page and do the login.
4. Examine USB Port on the Router for Damages
One more reason that can prevent the recognition of the SB device is that the USB port on the Linksys router is damaged. Check the same. Have a good look at the port. if you have an alternative USB port available on your router, then use it to connect the device.
However, if there is only one USB port (true in most cases) then you should get it repaired so that you can connect the device to it.
5. Update Firmware on Linksys Router
An outdated router is also one of the reasons why the USB drive can’t be recognized. Why don’t you check if there are updates pending for your Linksys router? You can check the firmware version of your router by accessing its admin portal.
If it is running on an outdated version, and an update is ready, then get the Linksys router upgraded immediately.
To manually update your router, download the latest firmware file for the router model that you own. Save it on your computer. After that, log in to the router. Install the firmware on your router. You can take the help of the user manual for the exact instructions.
The Final Thoughts
After you have updated your Linksys router to the recent firmware version, try to connect the USB drive to it. We can assure you that by using the above tips and tricks, you will no longer be facing the Linksys router not recognizing USB storage drive issue. There will not face any trouble now and you can access the data on your USB storage device easily on all the connected devices on the local network.
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