Instead of hunting for an outdated, unsafe driver:
Prolific intentionally disabled older, counterfeit PL2303 chips in drivers released after ~2012–2013.
If your adapter uses an unofficial (clone) chip, any driver newer than v3.3.x will show Code 10 (device cannot start).
That’s why people search for version 32 00 (3.2.0.0) — it’s one of the last versions that still works with many clone chips, especially on Windows 7, 8, and early Windows 10.
Prolific USB-to-Serial Driver v3.2.0.0 (2021) is a stable, secure release – but only for genuine PL2303 HXD/EA/RA chips. It deliberately breaks compatibility with older/counterfeit hardware. If your adapter worked before installing this version, your hardware is unsupported. Do not attempt to hack the driver; instead, replace the adapter with a modern, vendor-supported model (FTDI or genuine Prolific HXD).
Final recommendation: Check your chip revision before downloading. Use
USBVieworChipGeniusto identify the PL2303 variant. If it saysHXAorTA, skip v3.2.0.0 entirely.
This review evaluates the Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port Driver version 3.2.0.0, specifically its relevance and utility for users as of 2021. Review: Prolific USB-to-Serial Driver v3.2.0.0
Version 3.2.0.0 (dated July 31, 2007) has become a "legacy savior" for users of older serial devices. While officially superseded by newer versions like 3.9.x, this specific 2007 version is often the only way to make older or "unauthorized" PL2303 chips work on modern operating systems like Windows 10 and 11. Performance & Reliability
Legacy Compatibility: This version is highly recommended for older PL-2303HXA and PL-2303X chips that reached End-of-Life (EOL) and are no longer supported by modern Prolific drivers. prolific usb to serial comm port version 32 00 download 2021
The "Code 10" Fix: It is widely used to resolve the "This Device Cannot Start (Code 10)" error caused by newer drivers intentionally disabling non-genuine or older chips.
Stability: Once successfully installed and "locked" against Windows updates, it provides a stable bridge for devices like Baofeng radios, GPS units, and industrial serial equipment. Ease of Installation
Fixing the Prolific USB-to-Serial "Code 10" Error: A Guide to Driver Version 3.2.0.0
If you have tried to connect an older Prolific USB-to-Serial adapter recently, you have likely encountered the dreaded yellow warning triangle in Device Manager or a "This Device Cannot Start (Code 10)" error. This usually happens because Windows automatically updates your driver to a newer version that intentionally lacks support for legacy or "phased out" PL2303 chips.
The most reliable solution as of 2021 is to manually "backdate" your driver to Version 3.2.0.0. Why Version 3.2.0.0?
Newer drivers (often versions 3.8.x and above) are designed for the latest chip revisions and will often block older hardware. Version 3.2.0.0 is widely recognized as the "magic" legacy driver that restores functionality for older PL2303 HXA/XA and TA/TB chips on Windows 10 and 11. Step-by-Step Installation Guide
To get your adapter working again, follow these steps to force Windows to use the older driver version: Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port (COM4) Driver for System Instead of hunting for an outdated, unsafe driver:
How to Download and Install Prolific USB-to-Serial Driver Version 3.2.0.0
The Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port Version 3.2.0.0 is widely regarded by technicians and radio hobbyists as the "magic" driver for resolving connectivity issues with PL2303-based adapters. While newer drivers often fail or trigger "Code 10" errors on modern operating systems like Windows 10 and 11, version 3.2.0.0 (dated July 31, 2007) remains the most stable legacy solution. Why Version 3.2.0.0 is Essential in 2021 and Beyond
Most "Code 10" or "Device cannot start" errors occur because modern Windows updates automatically install the latest Prolific drivers. These newer versions are often incompatible with older or "clone" PL2303 chips. Reverting or "backdating" to v3.2.0.0 is the industry-standard fix for: Yellow Warning Triangles in Device Manager. "Phased Out" messages from the manufacturer.
Programming Cable Issues for ham radios and other serial equipment. Step-by-Step: Downloading and Installing Version 3.2.0.0
To successfully bypass Windows' tendency to update your driver automatically, follow these manual installation steps. 1. Download the Driver Package
Reliable legacy versions can be found through archived hardware support sites like Miklor or VE7ED. Ensure you download the version specifically labeled 3.2.0.0. 2. Prepare Your System
Unplug the USB Cable: Remove the adapter from your PC before starting the installation. Prolific USB-to-Serial Driver v3
Create a Work Folder: Save your download into a dedicated folder (e.g., C:\PL2303_Fix) for easy access. 3. Run the Installer Double-click the .exe or run the setup from the .zip file.
Follow the prompts in the InstallShield Wizard and click Finish when done. 4. Manually Select the Driver in Device Manager
Even after running the installer, Windows may still try to use a newer version. You must force it to use v3.2.0.0: Plug in your USB-to-Serial adapter. Open Device Manager (Right-click Start > Device Manager).
Expand Ports (COM & LPT) and right-click Prolific USB-to-Serial Comm Port. Select Update driver > Browse my computer for drivers.
Choose Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
Select the entry that specifically says Version: 3.2.0.0 [7/31/2007] and click Next. Troubleshooting Common Issues Cables & Drivers - Prolific & FTDI - Miklor