There is a massive market of counterfeit Prolific chips (PL2303) used in generic USB-to-Serial cables. To combat this, Prolific updated their drivers (versions 3.4 and higher) to detect fake chips. If a fake chip is detected, the driver disables the port, causing it to stop working.
: It is specifically recommended for older PL-2303HX and PL-2303HXA chipsets that the manufacturer has officially marked as "End of Life" (EOL). Performance and Reliability Windows 11 Prolific Driver Setup prolific usb to serial comm port version 32 00 download 2021
Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port Driver version 3.2.0.0 is widely recognized as the most stable "legacy" driver for resolving compatibility issues with older PL2303 chipsets (such as PL-2303HXA and PL-2303X). These chips were phased out in 2012 and often fail to work with modern Windows updates, frequently resulting in a "Code 10" error or a "Phased Out" warning. Download and Compatibility There is a massive market of counterfeit Prolific
: Execute the setup file and follow the prompts. If prompted to restart, do so. Force the Version Plug the cable back in and open Device Manager Right-click the "Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port" under Ports (COM & LPT) and select Update Driver Browse my computer for drivers Let me pick from a list Version 3.2.0.0 [7/31/2007] from the list and click Next. Comparison: 2021 Releases vs. Legacy PL2303 issues (Prolific USB to Serial Drivers) Win 11 : It is specifically recommended for older PL-2303HX