USB 2.0 was not supported in XP till SP1 (you didn't tell if you put that in). Also, I found problems with USB 2.0 hard disks until SP2.

Many machine's front ports are USB 2.0 but the wiring is not USB 2.0 rated and odd things happen. Usually I move to a rear port and it works. No software can fix bad wiring.

"These drivers are supposed to be present in Windows,"

Nope. Microsoft may or may not supply drivers. Also some makers snip them out. What came on the Microsoft CD may or may not be on a HP/Dell/Sony.

In closing, some machines such as HP/Dell come with more drivers than a stock install. Your post is far too slim on details for me to sniff out the issues but I'll note the usuals in hopes it helps.

Bob