Sometimes Windows can be a complicated system to manage, particularly when you encounter unforeseen problems when using it, such as a printer that does not print what you want, trouble connecting to a network, or any number of technical problems.
Troubleshooting issues might range from verifying cable connections to resetting your system and looking for driver upgrades that may address your problems. How can you determine which drivers require an update in Windows 10? Continue reading to find out how simple this is.
How Can You Tell If Drivers Need Updates?
The following circumstances should cause you to need to upgrade your system’s drivers:
- Purchasing a new computer – Although Windows is pre-installed on your new computer or laptop, numerous upgrades may have been made after Windows was first set up. When you first set up a new computer, you should install the most recent updates.
- Operating system updates – Whether you download Windows updates manually, automatically, or via Driver Updater Tool, your devices may be affected. By installing the most recent drivers for your system, you may help prevent any problems with compatibility or functionality.
- New peripherals: Installing the most recent drivers is a crucial step in ensuring that new devices, like printers, keyboards, or storage units, are operating correctly.
When an element of your system fails or does not function properly, upgrading the driver for that device is an excellent initial move toward problem resolution.
How Do You Identify Outdated Drivers?
Windows provides a number of ways to update your drivers, including automated and manual approaches.
Windows Update
Using Windows Update is a simple method of keeping your PC updated. This feature is included by Microsoft to simplify the process for the majority of Windows users.
Having Windows Update installed is beneficial for all Windows users, even if they do not require driver updates. Microsoft prioritizes regular updates in a number of categories:
- Optional – system drivers or software upgrades that are offered to address small issues or enhance functionality
- Recommended – solutions for issues that are not vital to the majority of Windows users
- Important – upgrades that particularly address concerns with dependability or security
Just click the Windows Start button, pick Update and Security from the Settings icon, and Windows Update will begin.
Windows Update will begin. The last time you looked for updates will be shown. To allow Windows Update to do its job, just hit the Check for Updates option.
Windows Update will check the components of your system against its database, which contains third-party objects like drivers and Microsoft updates. Your system will download and install any updates that are found. You will be guided through the process by Windows Update, which will notify you when the updates are finished.
Device Manager
To update specific device drivers, utilize the Windows Device Manager.
Keep in mind that you must be positive about the device you think should receive driver updates before you can use this method to update drivers. If you plan to use Device Manager to update drivers for more than one device, you will have to update each device simultaneously.
Although a little more complicated than using Windows Update, this procedure is still quite simple. To begin, type Device Manager into the Windows search bar and choose Update device drivers:
- A list of your system’s devices will be shown. After choosing the device you wish to upgrade, right-click and select Properties.
- The device’s attributes, including the information about your current driver (provider, date installed, etc.), will be shown.
- To update the driver, press the Update Driver button.
Searching and Downloading Drivers via The Internet
If you are certain which driver has expired or just need to look for a certain device driver, utilize the internet to search the manufacturer’s support page, where you may browse for the driver that relates to your system. You will most likely need to be aware of the following important details:
If you are certain which driver has expired or just need to look for a certain device driver, utilize the internet to search the manufacturer’s support page, where you may browse for the driver that relates to your system. You will most likely need to be aware of the following important details:
- The Windows version is installed on your machine
- Type of product
- The device’s model and version that you are attempting to upgrade
Conclusion
To ensure your system works smoothly, keep your drivers up to date. Windows provides easy ways to check for updates, including Windows Update and Device Manager. If you encounter issues with new hardware or updates, updating your drivers could solve them. You can also manually search for drivers on the manufacturer’s website if needed. Regularly checking and updating your drivers helps keep your computer running efficiently.
