Windows: New DVD drive is not recognized - what to do?

What to do if the new DVD drive is not recognized by Windows? We show you possible causes and the solutions to them in this practical tip.

New DVD drive is not recognized under Windows - you can do that

1. First switch off the PC and disconnect all cables. Then open the housing of the computer.
2. Make sure that the drive is connected correctly and the cabling is properly seated here.
3. You can try using a different connector on the motherboard if you still have one available.
4. Then switch the PC on again and go to "Control Panel"> "Device Manager".
5. Here, look for the drive in the list and right-click on the name.
6. A context menu opens. Select the item "Update driver software"> "Automatically search for current driver software".
7. If the drive there with a "!" the appropriate driver is missing. You may also have installed the wrong one (e.g. Windows 7 driver under Windows 8 or vice versa).
8. Go to the manufacturer's website to download the latest driver software for your device. Alternatively, you can also try to install the drivers via Windows update.
9. Contact the manufacturer for further assistance. There may also be a defect in the device. In this case, you should have it replaced.

This practical tip is based on Windows 7. In our next practical tip, you will read what you can do if access to the drive is denied.