Updating driver software on a Windows system is an important part of ensuring that your computer runs smoothly and efficiently. Microsoft routinely releases updates to its driver software, which helps ensure that your device hardware works properly and with the latest versions of Windows.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to check for and install driver updates on your Windows system.
1. Check for Updates
The first step in updating your device drivers is to check for any available updates. In Windows 10, the easiest way to do this is to use the Windows Update utility, which can be found under Settings > Update & Security. Here, you’ll find any available updates for your device and any related software. If there are driver updates available, they will be listed here. Select them and click Install to begin downloading and installing the updates.
Alternatively, you can check directly in Device Manager. Right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager. This will open a window showing all of your installed devices. From here, you can right-click on each individual device to check for driver updates.
2. Download & Install
If an update is available for a specific device, you can download it directly from the manufacturer’s website. Each device should have a unique driver package available for download. Make sure to select the download for the correct operating system and version. Once the download is complete, double-click the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the updated driver.
If you’re using Device Manager, you don’t need to download the driver manually. Instead, select the “Update Driver” option and then select “Search automatically for updated driver software.” This will allow Windows to search online for available driver updates and install them automatically.
3. Troubleshooting
Occasionally, you may encounter issues with driver updates. If you’re having problems with a driver update or installation, try restarting your computer or running the installation again. Some devices may require you to uninstall the old driver before installing the new driver. If this is the case, make sure to select the “Uninstall” option before selecting the “Install” option.
If these troubleshooting steps don’t help, contact the manufacturer. They may be able to provide further assistance with the installation process.
By following these steps and regularly checking for driver updates, you can keep your Windows system up-to-date and running smoothly.