1) Install the drivers, make sure you have not plugged in your Joystick during the installation.
If you followed the step 1 correctly, skip 2.
2) Install the drivers, don't plugin your JOystick, restart and then plug your joystick.
3) Try different port.
4) Try differen USB Cable.
5) Try to use the same joystick on friend's computer, if it works, then its a problem with your physical USB ports, get an external USB card.
6) If nothing works, then return the Joystick.