If the Security devices category is missing from Device Manager in Windows 11, it usually means your system isn’t detecting hardware like the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) or other security-related components properly. This can cause issues with features such as BitLocker, Windows Hello, and certain virtualization or security tools.
The problem may be caused by disabled TPM settings in BIOS/UEFI, outdated drivers, or Windows system issues.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to fix Security devices not showing in Device Manager step by step.
How to Fix Security Devices Not Showing in Device Manager
Before trying the fixes below, it helps to understand that the Security devices section usually appears only when Windows detects hardware like TPM. If TPM is disabled in BIOS or not supported by your motherboard, the category may not show up at all.
1. Check if TPM Is Enabled in BIOS/UEFI
The most common reason Security devices are missing is that TPM is disabled in your system firmware.
- Restart your PC.
- During startup, press the BIOS/UEFI key such as F2, Delete, Esc, or F10 depending on your manufacturer.
- Navigate to the Security, Advanced, or Trusted Computing section.
- Look for options like TPM, Intel PTT, or AMD fTPM.
- Enable the option if it is disabled.
- Save changes and restart your PC.
2. Scan for Hardware Changes in Device Manager
Windows may simply need to rescan your hardware.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Click the Action menu at the top.
- Select Scan for hardware changes.
- Wait for Windows to detect missing devices.
- Check if the Security devices category appears.
3. Show Hidden Devices
Sometimes the device category may be hidden rather than missing.
- Open Device Manager.
- Click View in the top menu.
- Select Show hidden devices.
- Look for the Security devices category.
- Expand it to see available hardware.
4. Update or Reinstall TPM Drivers
Corrupted or outdated TPM drivers can prevent Windows from showing the device.
- Open Device Manager.
- If Trusted Platform Module appears elsewhere, right-click it.
- Select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- If that doesn’t help, select Uninstall device, then restart your PC.
5. Check TPM Status in Windows
You can confirm whether Windows detects TPM using the built-in management tool.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type tpm.msc and press Enter.
- Check the TPM status window.
- If TPM is ready for use, Windows detects it properly.
- If it says TPM not found, revisit BIOS settings.
6. Update BIOS/UEFI Firmware
An outdated BIOS may prevent TPM or security devices from working correctly.
- Identify your motherboard or laptop model.
- Visit the manufacturer’s support website.
- Download the latest BIOS/UEFI update.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Restart your PC after updating.
7. Run Windows Update
Windows updates can install missing drivers and fix system issues.
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install all available updates.
- Restart your PC.
Final Thoughts
If Security devices are not showing in Device Manager, the issue is usually related to TPM settings, outdated firmware, or missing drivers. In most cases, enabling TPM in BIOS or updating your system fixes the problem quickly.
Once the issue is resolved, features like BitLocker, Windows Hello, and enhanced security tools should work properly again on your Windows 11 PC.