If your Mac is now down to a single viable port and you require multiple ports, then you could also invest in a USB hub. If you’re not wild about the idea of paying for repairs and you have at least one remaining functioning port, then one possible workaround is to simply designate the broken port as a no-go area, and use the remaining port instead. Unfortunately, faulty hardware is almost impossible to fix on your own, so you’ll need to take your Mac to a qualified professional, for example by booking an appointment at your local Apple store.
If cleaning the port hasn’t solved your problem, then the hardware itself might have failed. If the peripheral device has a port, or you’re using a cable that has a port, then check these additional ports for any signs of dust or debris, and repeat the cleaning steps if required. If there’s visible gunk stuck in the USB port, then make sure your Mac is completely switched off and disconnected from the power supply, and then take a non-conducting object such as a wooden toothpick or cotton bud, and gently ease out the debris. Start by blowing gently into the port to get rid of any dust, or if you have a can of compressed air to hand then a quick puff of air directly into the port is great for blasting away any loose debris. If your Mac suddenly recognises the device, then it’s clear that the port itself was the problem! Clean the portĭust and debris can get stuck in the USB port and prevent your Mac from making the connection properly. If your Mac has more than one USB port, then you can test whether the problem lies with the port itself, by connecting the same device to a different port. Regardless of what’s causing your USB-related woes, by the end of this article you’ll know exactly what you need to, in order to fix it. Once you’ve identified the component that’s causing the problem, I’ll also be sharing suggestions for fixing that particular component.
In this article, I’m going to show you how to put each of these components to the test. Is the port to blame, or could the peripheral device be faulty? Maybe the cable’s broken? Or perhaps there’s a bug with macOS? Macs aren’t exactly blessed when it comes to USB ports, so if one of your ports starts acting up, then you’re going to feel the loss! If your Mac is failing to recognise a device that you’ve connected to its USB port, then the first step is figuring out where the fault really lies. Although wireless peripherals are becoming more popular, USB is still one of the most common ways to connect an external device to your Mac. Many people use additional devices with their Macs, such as external displays, keyboards and mice.