Forum Discussion
Does Surface Diagnostic Toolkit fail to recognize my Surface because of its Insider OS version?
My Surface Pro 9 Surface "SMF Core Driver" does not load. In troubleshooting it, I discovered Surface Diagnostic Toolkit does not recognize my hardware as a Surface device, and the downloadable driver package will not install for the same reason. Is any of this a consequence of my having the current Insider Release Preview OS?
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Since starting this thread, I have learned that the only support option offered by Microsoft Surface Support is mail-in repair. That means losing use of my Surface for a time and probably subsequent reconfiguration. I would like to avoid that if possible.
Restoring the SKU model number is probably the only thing needed. The corrupt SKU prevents driver repair. I believe the fix is a quick and simple process, but it involves secure parts of the firmware. So it can only be done by a trusted Microsoft employee with access to internal tools and physical access to my Surface Pro.
I don't know much about the structure of Microsoft support. So I don't know if it's possible to find a kind-hearted Microsoft employee with access to the right tools to help me out, or if there is any special support avenue through the Windows Insider program. I live near several large Microsoft facilities in the Washington DC area.
I'm a student and cannot afford to be without my computer until winter break in December, 2025. So if anyone knows of a way to get the firmware repaired between now and then, it could save me and Microsoft Surface Support a lot of unnecessary work.
Your situation with the Surface Diagnostic Toolkit not recognizing your Surface Pro 9 and the "SMF Core Driver" not loading could indeed be related to running an Insider Release Preview OS. Insider builds often introduce changes that can affect hardware detection, driver compatibility, and diagnostic tools.
