I've had a look at the "similar threads" and the replies posted thereto - and I realize that I probably need to do a course of linux tutorials before I can even ask an intelligent or at least intelligible question - and make sense of the replies. Meanwhile, I'm using an ASUS Eeepc netbook and a Linux Mint 16 version -

Welcome to Linux questions!

You'll need to give us some more information though. Which model of EeePC are you using and what exactly are you connecting to the USB port that makes you think the port's faulty?

My thoughts. Options are...

1.) Not all three USB ports may support powering something like a USB hard drive. So you would be unable to access it on the non-powered/low power port. (I think one of my EeePCs is like that; two ports can run up a hard drive but the third can't. Can you check the EeePC's spec?)

2.) you have a hardware fault. Have you some way to run up another different live distro to eliminate the software/OS?

3.) you have a software fault. (less likely as there is generally only one driver used for all USB ports assuming they're all USB 2 for instance and your other two ports work.)

Play Bonny!

Welcome aboard.

When asking a question, give as much relevant info as possible, makes it easier to get you an answer.

:-)

I have one out of 8 not working... But I happen to know why: The frame around the plug has gotten slightly sprung, so it doesn't make good electrical contact. If the device is held just right, it works fine...

Thanks, all. I will come back when I am feeling less ignorant - like about the specs of my Eeepc! Meanwhile, two of the three ports are working, and that's something.