How to Check for Driver Updates in Windows

Edited 5 months ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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If you're using a Windows computer, you may need to update your drivers to ensure your system is running smoothly. Drivers are pieces of software that allow your hardware (such as your printer or graphics card) to communicate with your computer's operating system.

Why updating drivers is important

Keeping your drivers updated can prevent a variety of problems on your computer. Updated drivers can improve performance, fix bugs, and sometimes even add new features. For example, graphics card driver updates can improve video performance or video game graphics. On the other hand, out-of-date drivers can cause your hardware components to malfunction or work inefficiently.

How to check for driver updates

There are several ways to check for driver updates in Windows. Here are the most common methods:

1. Using Windows Update

   Windows Update is a service that downloads and installs security updates and feature improvements for the Windows operating system. It can also sometimes provide driver updates. Here's how you can use it:

   • Press the Windows key or click the Start menu.
   • Type Windows Update in the search bar and select Check for updates.
   • In the new window, click the Check for Updates button. Windows will search for available updates.
   • If updates are found, install them. Sometimes driver updates will also be included.
2. Using Device Manager

   Device Manager is a Control Panel tool in Windows that allows you to view and manage the hardware connected to your computer. It can also help to check for driver updates like this:

   • Open Device Manager by pressing the Windows + X keys and selecting Device Manager from the list.
   • Once opened, you will see a list of hardware categories. Find the hardware that you suspect may need a driver update.
   • Expand a category by clicking the arrow next to it.
   • Right-click on the specific device and select Update driver.
   • Select Search automatically for updated driver software and Windows will search for the latest driver online.
3. Visit the manufacturer's website

   Another effective way to update drivers is to visit the hardware manufacturer's website. Most manufacturers provide updated drivers for download directly from their website.

   • Identify the manufacturer of the hardware device you want to update.
   • Go to the official website of that manufacturer (e.g., Intel, AMD, NVIDIA).
   • Go to the Support or Downloads section of the website.
   • Enter the model number of the hardware (if necessary).
   • Download and install the latest drivers appropriate for the device and your Windows version.
4. Using third-party software

   There are many third-party software tools available that can help manage and update drivers. These tools can automatically detect outdated drivers and install new versions.

   • Download a reputable third-party driver update tool like Driver Booster or DriverPack Solution.
   • Install and run the tool on your computer.
   • The software will scan your system for outdated drivers and offer to update them automatically.
   • Select the drivers you want to update and follow the software instructions to complete the update process.

Understanding driver versions

When checking for driver updates, it is important to understand driver versions. These versions identify the release of the driver software. The version number usually increases with new drivers.

You can check the version of the currently installed drivers in Device Manager. Here's how:

• In Device Manager, locate the hardware device, right-click on it and select Properties.
• Go to the Driver tab.
• You will see the driver version and other details here.

What to do after updating drivers

Once your drivers are up-to-date, it's important to monitor your computer for any changes in its performance or behavior. Here's a recommended checklist:

• Restart your computer: After a driver update, it's a good idea to restart your computer to make sure all changes take effect.
• Test the hardware: Make sure the updated hardware is working as expected. For example, if you updated a graphics driver, run a video or game to test it.
• Restore option: Familiarize yourself with how to roll back a driver in case a new update causes problems. You can do this from Device Manager under the properties of the specific device under the Driver tab.

Troubleshooting driver update issues

Sometimes, the driver update process doesn't go smoothly. Here are some possible problems and tips for troubleshooting them:

• Driver update failed: If the driver update fails, try uninstalling the existing driver first and then install the new driver manually. You can uninstall the driver from Device Manager.
• System instability: If your system becomes unstable after a driver update, you may need to revert to a previous driver version. This option is available under specific device properties in Device Manager.
• Verify authenticity: Make sure the driver source is legitimate. Download drivers only from trusted manufacturer websites or reputable third-party tools.

Conclusion

Drivers play a vital role in the performance, stability, and functionality of your Windows computer. By making sure your drivers are up-to-date, you can keep your system running efficiently and take advantage of any new features or optimizations. Whether you use Windows Update, Device Manager, third-party tools, or direct downloads from manufacturers, knowing how to check for and update drivers is an essential skill for every Windows user.

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