Code 52: Windows cannot verify the digital signature for the drivers required for this device

Updated: May 27, 2010

Applies To: Windows Server 2008, Windows Vista

Device Manager displays the following message in the Device Properties dialog box, on the General tab, in the Device Status text box:

Windows cannot verify the digital signature for the drivers required for this device. A recent hardware or software change might have installed a file that is signed incorrectly or damaged, or that might be malicious software from an unknown source. (Code 52)

Diagnosis

The driver may be unsigned or corrupted.

Resolution

Try one of the following:

• If the device is a CD or DVD drive, use the Automated Troubleshooting Service, at the Microsoft Support Web site (https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=192997).

• Go to the device manufacturer’s Web site and download and install the latest appropriate driver for the device.

• Search for possible solutions for your particular device on the Microsoft Support Web site (https://support.microsoft.com). For example, for issues related with an iPod, you might search for “code 52” iPod.