My computer does not recognize my Samsung smartphone.

Hello,

My computer does not recognize my Samsung mobile phone. My situation is very problematic, as I have tested most of the tips on the internet, not without difficulties and especially without results.

I want to clarify that I am using the original cable, which has always worked before. I even tried it on another phone: it works.

I first connected my phone, a 2015 Samsung, SM-G361F, to my computer, which did not recognize it. I emphasize that it did not appear in either Computer or Devices.

I then turned my phone off and on again while it was connected to the computer. Miracle! A notification appeared on my phone, and I was able to transfer my music, photos, documents, ... and free up space on the phone. (This phone is also a work tool).

Now here is the problem:
When I wanted to connect it again, it was no longer recognized. There was nothing in Computer. But the phone appeared in Devices, with a problem. I tried to resolve it, but the computer couldn't find a solution.

So, for about 2 hours, I browsed forums and watched tutorials. I found nothing that resolved my issue.

I had one option in Devices: by right-clicking on the phone, I could uninstall the driver. So, in a desperate attempt, I uninstalled it, as suggested by someone, to get the computer to propose reinstalling the drivers. Well, the computer proposes nothing, the phone still shows no notifications, and now when it is connected to the computer, it doesn't even appear in Devices. Absolutely invisible.
To be precise, the computer makes a sound when I connect the phone, and when I turn off the phone while leaving it connected, the computer displays a small window saying "USB device not recognized," but I can't do anything by clicking on it.

I tried connecting my phone to another computer that had recognized it before. Well, it doesn't recognize it either; it appears in neither Computer nor Devices. Which suggests that the issue may be with the phone and not the computer? I want to remind you that I am using the original cable, with which it has always worked, with any computer, and it even works for another smartphone.

During my research, some advice suggested checking MTP or PTP in "USB connection to the computer." However, in reality, there is none of this on my phone, nor anything that corresponds or resembles it. I really searched everywhere in my settings, no options for connecting to a computer.

I did discover that by dialing the code: *#0808#, I can access the connection options to a computer. I found: MTP, MTP + ADB, PTP, PTP + ADB; I tried them all, turning the phone and computer off and on each time. Still nothing. No notification on the phone, which appears in neither Computer nor Devices.

So I thought I would download the correct driver using the phone's model reference. I came across a site with a very long list of all Samsung models; there were many, the numbers followed sequentially, there were some before, some after, but not: SM-G361F.

I tried downloading two software programs that allow a phone to be recognized on a computer, but they did not recognize it.

Nevertheless, to be honest about these two attempts: downloading the correct driver or downloading software to enable phone recognition, I think I didn't go all the way. I could have gone further maybe. But actually, it was complicated, and above all, I had the feeling that what I was doing while trying and searching was going to yield nothing. And that is the case; still no solution at this time.

It is out of necessity that I need to reuse this smartphone, which is recent enough to be able to use my bank's application, which in 2021 will change its online payment methods. I could buy another smartphone if absolutely necessary. But I don't want to, since I already have one that works, or that used to work, rather. It would save me money, it would be better for the planet too. And then, the principle of understanding why something is not working and trying to fix it before choosing the easy way: to pay for something new, also appeals to me.

Now I am a bit disgusted and think I will have to buy a phone when this one runs out of space... At this point, I just want to understand. Why did it work before and not now? Did I delete something I shouldn't have while trying to keep the minimum to free up space? But every problem has its solution, right?

I don't really have friends or acquaintances knowledgeable enough to help me with this level of complication, I think.

I even wondered if I should see a professional to explain it to me. An IT technician, a salesperson in an appliance store? The smartphone did not come from their store. So I know that they are unlikely to be interested in explaining to an ordinary guy why his old phone is no longer recognized by computers. By the way, I am no longer in the city where I bought this phone, and it is no longer under warranty.

There you go,

Thank you in advance to the person who has the patience to read my message and who has any advice to give me. Even if it’s just: "Dude, buy yourself a new phone!"

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