A device driver is essential software that enables the communication between the operating system and hardware components of your computer (display, a USB drive, a keyboard, a printer and more). Install or update drivers on Windows 11 ensure optimal performance and stability of hardware components. Newer drivers often come with performance enhancements and bug fixes, which can lead to smoother operations and fewer system crashes. On the other hand, using outdated or incompatible device drivers can lead to different problems. For instance, an outdated Graphics card driver might not be able to properly render modern applications or games, leading to graphical glitches or even system crashes. An outdated network adapter driver (WiFi drive) could result in slow or unstable internet connection or WiFi disconnect frequently. Therefore it’s important to keep device drivers updated to maintain a a healthy and functional computer system. Here are different ways to update or reinstall Device drivers on Windows 11 and Windows 10 PCs.
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How to Update Drivers on Windows 11
There are several ways to update device drivers on Windows 11. You can utilize the built-in Windows Update feature, which automatically searches for and installs driver updates for Windows 11 devices. Another option is to use the Device Manager, Here, you can manually update drivers by selecting the specific hardware component and choosing to update its driver.
Additionally, visiting the official website of the device manufacturer (OEM) is a reliable method. This allows you to download and install the latest driver directly from the source. Also, there are third-party driver update tools available, which simplify the process by scanning for outdated drivers and allow Update drivers on Windows 11 with just a few clicks.
Updating drivers using Windows update
When you run Windows Update, it not only checks for operating system updates, but it also looks for driver updates for hardware components on your computer. This can include updates for devices like graphics cards, network adapters, printers, and more. . These updates are typically labeled as “Optional” or “Recommended” updates.
- Press the Windows Key and I simultaneously on your keyboard to open the Windows 11 Settings app.
- locate and select “Windows Update” from the options, and click on the “Check for updates” button to initiate the process of checking for the latest security updates.
- After checking for updates, click on “Advanced Options.” This will take you to additional update settings.
- Now choose “Optional updates.” This will include optional updates, which may include driver updates.
- Locate “Driver Updates” in the list of optional updates and click on it. Then, click “Download and install.”
- If a driver update doesn’t download successfully, you can try clicking the “Retry” button to attempt the download again.
Once the driver updates have been downloaded and installed, Windows will prompt you to restart your computer to complete the installation process.
Update drivers in Device Manager
Device Manager the built-in Windows utility helps you keep your drivers up to date on Windows 11. The Device Manager stores information about various hardware and peripherals connected to the system, allowing control. Here you can update the driver, uninstall the device, or roll back the driver update.
- Press the Windows key + X, and select ‘Device Manager’ from the menu.
- locate the driver you want to update. Right-click on it and choose ‘Update driver’ from the menu.
You’ll be presented with two options:
- ‘Search automatically for drivers’: This prompts Windows to find and install the best available driver automatically.
- ‘Browse my computer for drivers’: If Windows can’t locate the update, you have the option to manually select the driver file either from Windows Update or the manufacturer’s website.
- For more control over driver selection, click Browser my computer for driver then choose ‘Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer‘.
- You’ll see a list of compatible drivers for the device. Select the desired one and click ‘Next’.
- The driver will now be updated, and Windows will notify you of the successful update.”
Download Drivers From Manufacturer’s Websites
Also, you can visit device manufacturer’s websites (Dell, Lenovo, HP, and so on) for the latest driver update.
Download OEM drivers:
- For example, if you have a Dell laptop you can visit the Dell support page here or, HP support page here.
- Choose your product, enter in your serial number, or run the detection software distributed by your OEM.
- If prompted, select the version of Windows your device is running. Find the driver you need, and choose Download
Once the file is downloaded, double-click on it and follow on-screen instructions to install it.
To download the Graphics driver:
- On Intel systems, use the Intel Driver and Support Assistant. Or manually downloading drivers from their website by downloading, double-clicking, and installing them.
- On AMD systems, use AMD’s download center for graphics, and choose the auto-detection tool. For a manual download, choose your hardware, download the file, and double-click to launch it.
- For updating NVIDIA graphics, use the NVIDIA GeForce Experience software. For manual download, use the Nvidia download center.
Using third-party driver update tools
There are various third-party driver update tools available that can help automate the process of finding and installing the latest drivers for your hardware components. These utilities typically scan your system, identify outdated or missing drivers, and then provide options to download and install the appropriate updates. They can be particularly useful for users who want a more streamlined and automated approach to driver updates.
- Driver Booster by IObit: This widely-used tool scans your system for outdated drivers and allows you to update them with a single click. It also offers a large database of drivers.
- Driver Easy: Driver Easy automatically identifies, downloads, and installs the latest drivers for your hardware components. It also provides a user-friendly interface.
- Driver Talent: This tool identifies outdated, missing, and faulty drivers and offers one-click solutions for updating them. It also includes features like driver backups and restores.
- DriverIdentifier: DriverIdentifier is a simple, portable tool that scans your system and provides a list of available driver updates along with direct download links.
It is recommended to always create a system backup or restore point before using any third-party tool to update drivers, as automated updates can sometimes lead to compatibility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a device driver?
- A device driver is software that allows your computer’s operating system to communicate with and control a hardware component, like a graphics card or printer.
Why should I update device drivers?
- Updating drivers can improve hardware performance, fix bugs or compatibility issues, and enhance overall system stability.
How can I update device drivers in Windows 11?
- You can update device drivers in Windows 11 through the Device Manager or by using third-party driver update utilities.
How do I open Device Manager in Windows 11?
- Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and select “Device Manager” from the menu that appears.
What should I do if Windows Update doesn’t find a driver update?
- You can manually download and install the driver from the manufacturer’s website.
Is it necessary to restart my computer after updating a driver?
- In most cases, it’s recommended to restart your computer to apply the driver changes effectively.
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