Keeping Drivers Current Without the Risky Shortcuts
Drivers are small programs that let Windows talk to hardware such as your graphics chip, wireless adapter and printer. Outdated ones can cause crashes, poor performance and odd behaviour.
Which drivers matter most
- Graphics: affects games, video and display problems.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: affects connection stability.
- Chipset and storage: affects overall stability and speed.
- Audio: affects crackling or missing sound.
The safest update routes
- Windows Update. Open Settings, then Windows Update, then Advanced options, then Optional updates. Many driver updates appear here.
- Your computer maker's support page. Enter your model name or serial number and download what is listed. This is the best source for laptops.
- The chip maker. Graphics companies publish their own current drivers on their official sites.
What to avoid
Skip websites and programs that claim to scan and update every driver for you. Many bundle unwanted extras, and some install the wrong version. If an advert shouts about errors found on your computer, ignore it.
Before you update
- Create a restore point or back up your files.
- Note the version you have now.
- Close other programs and, on a laptop, plug in the charger.
If an update causes trouble
Open Device Manager, right-click the device, choose Properties, then Driver, and select Roll Back Driver. That returns you to the previous version.
How often?
Check graphics drivers every few months if you play games, and the rest when you notice a problem or when your maker announces a fix. There is no need to chase every release.
This guide is general information, not professional advice. Menus, features and prices change between versions and regions. See our disclaimer.