The FT232R USB UART DRIVER is the necessary software component that enables prompt communication between your computer’s USB port and serial UART devices which are using the FTDI FT232R chips (FT232RL/ FT232RQ).
Inside the FT232R IC, you’ll find everything you need: USB communication, built-in memory for settings, a precise clock, and handy data buffers. That means fewer parts required in your design, and a plus is that, it works with a bunch of serial formats – TTL, RS‑232, RS‑422, RS‑485; it can handle the transmission and reception of data between 300 baud and 3 Mbaud.
So, in short, the FT232R USB-to-UART interface IC from FTDI Chip offers an all rounder solution for USB serial communication, widely utilized in development boards, industrial controls, diagnostic tools, and embedded systems. Reliable data transfer with integrated EEPROM customization and broad operating system support is all covered by this integrated circuit.
FT232R USB UART Drivers for Windows 10/11
FTDI FT232R USB serial port driver, compatible with Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11 (32/64-bit) and Windows Server. Microsoft WHQL certified, supporting virtual COM port (VCP) and direct D2XX driver modes for enhanced flexibility.
File Name: FT232R_USB_UART_Drivers_Windows_10_11.zip
File Information: Zip Archive (~2.24MB)
Download link: 
- First Download the driver package using the link above.
- Then, extract the .zip file, locate FT232R_Drivers_Setup.exe, and run the installer.
- Follow on-screen prompts to complete installation. (scroll down for step by step installation guide)
- Connect your FT232R device via USB; the system will auto-detect hardware.
For troubleshooting, see the FTDI Support Page. - This universal driver works on both FT232RL and FT232RQ versions.
These are official driver packages which are available from FTDI, additionally you may be required to download Virtual COM Port (VCP) drivers (which emulate standard COM ports) and D2XX direct-access drivers for advanced API-based control.
Virtual COM Port & D2XX direct-access drivers
Also download CH340 drivers here!
Installation Steps for FT232R USB UART Driver
For Windows (7/ 10/ 11):
1. Download the Driver from above links and extract the content in the .zip archive to a known folder.
2. Run the Installer or Extract Files:
3. Select the setup.exe (e.g., FT232R_Drivers_Setup.exe) for a quick install.
Option A – Use Installer:
4. Right-click on the .exe file, select Run as administrator, and follow prompts to complete installation.
Option B – Manual via Device Manager:
5. Plug in the FT232R device.
6. Open Device Manager, locate “FT232R USB UART” (might appear under “Other devices” or with a warning icon).
Right-click → Update driver → choose Browse my computer for driver software.
Navigate to the folder where you extracted the driver files, click Next.
Windows then updates “USB Serial Port”
Confirm Installation:
Device Manager should show “USB Serial Port (COM X)” (with X being the COM port number). Your device is now accessible to serial terminals and applications.
Key Features & Applications:
-> Baud Rate: Supports 300 baud to 3 Mbaud.
-> Voltage Tolerant: 1.8V–5V I/O compatibility.
-> Common Uses: Arduino programming, CNC controllers, GPS modules, and legacy RS232 device interfacing.
-> All drivers are universal for the FT232R series ( FT232RL/ FT232RQ).
Additional Key Facts:
1. All‑in‑One Integration: Combines USB protocol engine, EEPROM (for VID/PID and CBUS config), clock generation, USB resistors, level translators, power‑on‑reset, and AVCC filtering no extra crystals or components needed.
2. Clock Output Options: Offers selectable external clock outputs at 6 MHz, 12 MHz, 24 MHz, or 48 MHz to directly drive microcontrollers or FPGAs.
3. FIFO Buffers: Features a 128‑byte receive buffer and 256‑byte transmit buffer with smoothing technology for reliable high‑throughput data transfers.
4. FTDIChip‑ID™: Embeds a unique, factory‑programmed USB serial number for authentication purposes, ideal for hardware dongles or licensing mechanisms.
5. Configurable CBUS & LEDs: CBUS pins can be programmed for functions like TXDEN, PWREN, TXLED, RXLED, sleep indicator, clocks, or act as GPIO for LED or control signaling.
6. Bit‑Bang Modes: Supports synchronous and asynchronous (with RD and WR strobes) bit‑bang modes, UART lines can be repurposed as general‑purpose I/O.
7. Robust Operation & USB Compliance: USB 2.0 Full‑Speed and UHCI/OHCI/EHCI compatible, operates in bus‑powered or self‑powered modes, low active (~15 mA) and suspend (~70 µA) current, wide –40 °C to +85 °C temperature range, in compact Pb‑free SSOP‑28 or QFN‑32 packaging.
Installing the FT232RL USB UART DRIVER correctly is critical for stability and device recognition (which is quite simple if done properly). FTDI provides installation guides and driver installers for Windows (including Windows 10 and 11), macOS, and Linux, which you can find on their official documentation site.
Whether you choose the straightforward executable or manual installation via Device Manager, by following the official steps you can ensure debugging and avoid the risks of incomplete installation.
