If you are trying to connect a Google Pixel, Nexus, or Android development device to a Windows PC for ADB debugging or Fastboot commands, you will need the official Google USB Driver.
Step 1: Enable USB Debugging on Your Device
Before setting up the driver, configure your Android phone to allow ADB connections:
- Open Settings on your Android device.
- Go to About phone and tap Build number 7 times to enable Developer options.
- Navigate to Settings > System > Developer options.
- Toggle USB debugging to On.
Step 2: Obtain the Driver
Method 1: Direct Download (Standalone Driver)
- Go to developer.android.com.
- Locate the standalone Google USB Driver archive.
- Accept the terms and download the ZIP file.
Method 2: Via Android Studio
- Launch Android Studio.
- Open Tools > Android > SDK Tools.
- Select Google USB Driver from the list and click OK.
- Follow the prompt instructions to complete the download.
Step 3: Install the Driver in Windows
- Press
Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
devmgmt.msc and press Enter to launch Device Manager.
- Expand the Portable Devices section.
- Right-click your connected Android device and select Update driver.
- Click Browse my computer for driver software.
- Select the folder where you saved/extracted the driver files and click Next to complete installation.
