If a hardware device isn't functioning properly, or if a program or game that you're installing states that it requires newer drivers than you currently have installed, you should check Windows Update for updated drivers. If technical support personnel have asked you to install drivers from a disc or from the device manufacturer's website, you can also manually update drivers for your device.
To update drivers using Windows Update
1. Open Windows Update by clicking the
Start button
, clicking
All Programs, and then clicking
Windows Update.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
2. In the left pane, click
Check for updates.
3. To see if updated drivers are available, click
View available updates. Windows Update will list any updated drivers that are available for devices installed in your computer.
4. If updates are available, click the driver that you want to install, and then click
Install.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
To manually update drivers
You must be logged on as an administrator to perform these steps.
1. Open Device Manager by clicking the
Start button
, clicking
Control Panel, clicking
System and Maintenance, and then clicking
Device Manager.
If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
2. In Device Manager, locate the device you want to update, and then double-click the device name.
3. Click the
Driver tab, and then click
Update Driver.
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