Windows frequently updates drivers automatically. If your patched device stops working out of nowhere, Windows likely replaced your custom driver with a default "Unknown Device" identifier. You may need to use a tool like wushowhide to block updates for that hardware ID.
The code FFFF is not a legally registered manufacturer. It is a placeholder code often used by factory developers during the prototyping phase. It is also frequently found in generic, unbranded, or counterfeit microcontrollers, USB flash drives, and serial adapters.
: Removing the USB drive while the controller is performing dynamic wear-leveling processes can trash the internal Translation Layer (FTL).
Search for (specifically looking for versions labeled for FC1178 or FC1179 3D Flash ).
What are you plugging in? (Flash drive, serial adapter, Arduino clone?) What operating system version are you running? Did this happen right after a Windows Update ?
Sometimes the device is functional, but Windows doesn't know how to talk to it. Open .
Avoid ultra-cheap USB-to-Serial adapters or flash drives from unverified international marketplaces.