A device driver is not as complicated as it sounds. In order to keep one's PC up and running, a basic understanding is extremely helpful.
Basically, a driver is a file that controls the different internal or external devices of a Windows-based PC. It helps the computer communicate with the different tools one would like to use. Examples of these external devices are video cards, scanners and printers.
All the Windows operating systems come with built-in drivers. If a new device is plugged into the pc, it will often automatically install a driver if the driver is already in the driver library of the PC. If it does not have the required driver, it will prompt you to install a driver manually from a CD or from the internet. Preferably, the driver provided by the creator of the device is the one to be used.
If a device is not working properly, it may be the time when one needs to update their drivers. It may result from a bug in the existing driver that has been fixed in the new version.
So, how does one update a driver? First, check the details of the device. The information is usually inscribed in the device itself or it's with its manual. Next, check if the accompanying CD of the device has the updated driver. If it does not contain the driver or if there is no CD at all, there may be a necessity to download it from the OEM's (Original Equipment Manufacturer) website. Most gadgets nowadays have customer care or a support page in their websites. Many even have chat support. They usually provide for the necessary updated device drivers and instructions on how to update it. If the website still does not provide for the driver, here are a few websites which can help:
After which, install the driver(s).
If it is an internal device, the necessary information of the device can be found using the Windows System Information program on your computer. Just click the Start button, then Programs, then Accessories, and then System Tools.
In the System Information, there is a list of devices. Once you get the device name and details, you can now repeat the steps enumerated above. Next open the Control panel and double click the System icon. Choose the device manager tab. Click on the device, and then Properties and then the Drivers tab. Next, click update driver and follow the steps indicated. When it looks for the needed driver, just click on the newly downloaded driver. Finally, reboot the PC for the newly installed driver to work properly.
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