How to Fix Drivers Update Problems

Most hardware device manufacturers provide a drivers update for their devices periodically. These updates are issued as problems with the devices are discovered and fixed, as security vulnerabilities identified and resolved, and as new features and enhancements are added. A drivers update may be released in conjunction with a new operating system, adding compatibility. While many hardware manufacturers share their device drivers with Microsoft, allowing for automatic updates in conjunction with Windows Updates, not all do. When this is the case, one of the best ways to find a hardware update for your device is to go directly to the manufacturer’s website.

 

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When searching for device drivers on manufacturer websites, you’ll need to be extremely attentive to the model of your device and your operating system version. Otherwise, you could download and install the wrong update which could render the device useless until you figure out the problem and install the correct driver. Device drivers are software programs written specifically for a device and a certain operating system. The driver tells the operating system what the device is and what it is capable of. If you choose a drivers update for the wrong device or operating system, the software tells your computer the wrong information. In short, your computer won’t be able to interact with the device as it should because it’s been fed incorrect information.

Manufacturers typically post their updated driver files in the support section of their websites. Some make it easy for you by providing a tool that identifies your computer’s installed devices while others require you to enter the model number of your computer or device. For owners of computers that came “off the shelf,” going to the computer’s manufacturer’s site and selecting the computer allows for quick access to available downloads specific to the computer. You may discover that not only is the drivers update you were looking for available but other updates for your computer’s hardware as well.

Whether you find the drivers update on your computer manufacturer’s website or on the site of the device’s manufacturer, make sure to set a restore point before proceeding. This way, you’ll have a quick and easy way to restore your computer should the update process fail or produce undesirable results.

As far as downloading and installing a hardware update goes, the manufacturer will likely provide you with instructions or provide you with a self-installing update. If you need to manually install it, you’ll likely save it to your hard disk and then use Device Manager to install it. If the drivers update is self-installing, you may see a computer security warning prompting you to allow or block the process. Since you trust the manufacturer and are purposely trying to update the drivers, go ahead and authorize the process if prompted. The installer will then run the process and update your device. Finally, reboot your computer for the update to take effect.