usb port problem

[dizzyduck]

When I attach a flash-drive to either of the two USB ports on the front of my computer, I get the message 'one of the USB devices attached to this computer has malfunctioned & windows does not recognize it.' - when I click the message it shows 'unknown device'. I have tried 4 different pen-drives with the same result. Tried the troubleshooter, but don't understand the messages. Any help would be much appreciated. (I have also tried shutting down & restarting the pc)

[AlBags]

Do they both do this?
USB ports can burn out. I have seen this a few times.
Are you sure you have not inserted a USB device into them the wrong way round, or something tried that may overload them?
I think you only answer is to replace the ports and the board with them (if it is a separate board) or if extentions from the motherboard, you will have to add an add-on USB board.
You need to get the header pins or board disconnected from the mainboard soonest, if they are not going to cause further problems.
I suppose I would try removing first in device manager and rebooting, then rechecking the entry, but I think this will be no-go.

[dizzyduck]

Yes they do both do this - I now find I cannot print anything from my computer - seems to be a USB problem. I can scan and print so must be a computer to printer problem. I think I need to call in an expert - many thanks for your help