Why Windows reinstalls drivers when I connect it to another USB port?

[RealCat]

When I connect a USB device, such as a usb headset, which I had
already connected to a USB port on my computer, to another USB port on
my computer, it seems like Windows reinstalls the driver, because I
see the "installing..." and "installed" balloon again. Why does
Windows reinstall a driver for the same hardware again just because I
put it another port?

 

[Richard Urban]

YES!

 

[NotEvenMe]

because it thinks it is a different device.
it has to reroute the driver control to that port, so it reinstalls

 

[RealCat]

Yes?

YES!

--

Richard Urban
Microsoft MVP
Windows Desktop Experience

 

[RealCat]

OK, then what happens to the previously installed driver for the same
device at another port, does it remain or get removed somehow?

 

[NotEvenMe]

if you unplug the device and plug it back to the other port, it will
redetect and install again, so I am guessing it is overwritten.
if you have duplicate items and have both plugged in at once, the driver for
both is installed and works until you unplug one or both. when replugging,
it is reinstalled

OK, then what happens to the previously installed driver for the same
device at another port, does it remain or get removed somehow?