How to Update Drivers on Windows PC [Windows 11 & 10]

Keeping your Windows drivers up to date is one of the easiest ways to improve your computer’s overall performance, security, and hardware compatibility. Every device connected to your computer, including your graphics card, network adapter, printer, Bluetooth module, sound card, and even your keyboard, relies on a driver to communicate with the Windows operating system. Without the correct driver, Windows may not recognize the hardware properly, causing it to perform poorly or stop working altogether.

Driver updates often include bug fixes, security improvements, performance enhancements, and support for the latest Windows updates. They can also resolve issues such as random crashes, hardware not being detected, slow graphics performance, audio problems, WiFi connection errors, and device compatibility issues after upgrading to Windows 11 or installing a major Windows 10 update.

Fortunately, updating drivers is much easier than many people think. Windows includes built-in tools that can automatically search for and install compatible drivers, while hardware manufacturers regularly release newer versions that provide the latest features and improvements. Choosing the right update method depends on the type of hardware you’re using and whether you want the convenience of automatic updates or the newest driver available directly from the manufacturer.

In this guide, you’ll learn every reliable method to update drivers on Windows 11 and Windows 10. 

Let’s start with the most direct method.

Method 1: Update Drivers Using Device Manager (Built-In Tool)

Device Manager is one of the most useful tools included with Windows. It allows you to view every hardware component installed on your computer and gives you the ability to update, uninstall, disable, or troubleshoot individual drivers. If you’re only updating one specific device, such as your graphics card, WiFi adapter, or sound driver, Device Manager is usually the best place to begin.

Step 1: Open Device Manager

The first step is opening Device Manager.

One of the quickest methods is to press Windows + X on your keyboard. This opens the Quick Link menu near the Start button. From the list of options, click Device Manager.

You can also press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Type devmgmt.msc and press Enter. Windows will immediately launch Device Manager.

Once it opens, you’ll see a list of hardware categories. Don’t worry if it looks confusing at first. Each category simply groups similar hardware together, making it easier to find the device you want to update.

Step 2: Locate the Device

Next, locate the hardware whose driver you want to update.

Each category can be expanded by clicking the small arrow beside it. For example, if you’re updating your graphics card, expand Display adapters. If you’re fixing internet problems, expand Network adapters. For speaker or microphone issues, open Sound, video and game controllers.

Take a moment to identify the correct device. Many computers have more than one hardware component in the same category. For example, laptops often include both an Intel integrated graphics adapter and a dedicated NVIDIA or AMD graphics card.

Choosing the correct device ensures Windows updates the right driver.

Step 3: Start the Driver Update

After finding your hardware, right-click the device name.

A menu will appear with several options. Select Update driver.

Windows will then open the Update Drivers wizard. This wizard helps you install newer drivers without needing advanced technical knowledge.

If Windows detects a compatible update during the process, it will automatically guide you through the installation.

Step 4: Choose How You Want to Search for Drivers

The Update Drivers wizard provides two different options.

The first option is Search automatically for drivers.

This is the easiest option for beginners. Windows searches your computer first and then checks Microsoft’s driver database for a newer compatible version. If an updated driver is available, Windows downloads and installs it automatically.

The second option is Browse my computer for drivers.

Choose this option if you’ve already downloaded a driver from the hardware manufacturer’s website. Windows allows you to browse to the folder containing the downloaded driver files and install them manually.

If you’re unsure which option to select, start with Search automatically for drivers. If Windows reports that no newer driver is available, but you know the manufacturer has released one, you can return later and use the manual installation option.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

Once Windows finishes installing the driver, you’ll usually receive a confirmation message.

Although some drivers begin working immediately, restarting your computer is highly recommended. A restart allows Windows to completely unload the older driver and initialize the newly installed version.

After restarting, your updated hardware driver should be fully active.

Additional Tip for Windows 11

Although Device Manager remains available in Windows 11, Microsoft now encourages users to install many driver updates through the Settings app instead. This is especially useful for graphics adapters, network devices, and other commonly updated hardware.

Open Settings, select Windows Update, then choose Advanced options. Next, open Optional updates and look under Driver Updates.

If Windows has newer certified drivers available, they will appear here. Simply select the drivers you want to install and allow Windows to complete the update.

Using Optional Updates is often easier than manually searching through Device Manager because Windows gathers all available driver updates into one location.

Method 2: Update Drivers Using Windows Update

Another reliable way to update drivers is through Windows Update. While most people use Windows Update to install security patches and feature updates, it also delivers certified drivers for a wide range of hardware devices.

This method is especially useful for beginners because Windows automatically verifies that the driver is compatible with your version of Windows 11 or Windows 10 before installing it. Since these drivers are tested by Microsoft, they’re generally very stable and safe to use.

Keep in mind, however, that Windows Update doesn’t always provide the newest version available. Hardware manufacturers sometimes release updated drivers on their own websites weeks or even months before Microsoft includes them in Windows Update. Even so, this remains one of the safest methods for keeping your drivers reasonably up to date.

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

Begin by opening the Settings app.

The quickest way is to press Windows + I on your keyboard.

If you’re using Windows 10, select Update & Security, then click Windows Update from the left panel.

If you’re using Windows 11, simply choose Windows Update from the navigation menu.

You’ll now see the Windows Update page, where Windows checks for operating system updates as well as available driver updates.

Step 2: Check for Available Updates

After opening the Windows Update page, click the Check for updates button. Windows will connect to Microsoft’s update servers and search for any available updates for your operating system and compatible hardware devices.

The scanning process usually takes only a few minutes, although it may take longer if your internet connection is slow or if your computer has not been updated recently.

During this process, Windows compares the drivers currently installed on your computer with the versions available in Microsoft’s driver catalog. If newer drivers are available for supported devices, Windows prepares them for download.

It is perfectly normal if Windows spends several minutes checking for updates. Allow the process to finish without closing the Settings window.

Step 3: Download and Install the Available Updates

Once the scan is complete, Windows will display any available updates.

If driver updates are included, Windows may begin downloading them automatically. In some cases, you may need to click Download and install before the installation starts.

During the installation process, avoid turning off your computer or disconnecting power from your laptop. Interrupting an update could cause the driver installation to fail.

Some driver updates install within seconds, while larger updates, such as graphics or chipset drivers, may take several minutes depending on their size.

You can continue using your computer during many driver installations, but performance may temporarily slow down while Windows applies the updates in the background.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

After the installation finishes, Windows may ask you to restart your computer.

Although some driver updates become active immediately, many require a restart before Windows loads the new driver during startup.

Save any open documents before restarting your PC.

Once Windows starts again, the updated driver should be fully installed and ready to use. If the update addressed a hardware issue, such as poor graphics performance, audio problems, or unstable network connectivity, you may notice improvements immediately.

Important Note About Windows Update

While Windows Update is one of the safest methods for updating drivers, it does have limitations.

Microsoft typically distributes drivers that have been tested for compatibility and stability. However, hardware manufacturers often release newer versions directly on their websites before Microsoft adds them to Windows Update.

This is especially common for graphics cards, gaming hardware, advanced WiFi adapters, and specialized peripherals. If you need the latest features, improved gaming performance, or fixes for newly discovered issues, downloading the newest driver from the manufacturer’s website is usually the better option.

Additional Tip for Windows 11

One of the biggest improvements in Windows 11 is the easier access to optional driver updates.

Instead of searching through Device Manager, you can install many hardware drivers directly from the Settings app.

Open Settings, select Windows Update, choose Advanced options, and then click Optional updates.

If Windows has additional drivers available, you’ll find them listed under Driver Updates. Review the available updates, select the ones you want to install, and allow Windows to complete the process.

This section often includes updates that are not installed automatically but can improve hardware compatibility and overall system stability.

Method 3: Update Drivers Using the Manufacturer’s Website

Although Windows provides convenient ways to update drivers, it doesn’t always offer the newest version available. Hardware manufacturers regularly release updated drivers that include performance improvements, security fixes, bug resolutions, and support for newly released Windows updates.

Downloading drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website is the recommended approach when you’re updating important hardware such as your graphics card, chipset, network adapter, Bluetooth device, audio controller, or storage controller.

It is also the best option if Windows Update or Device Manager reports that your driver is already up to date, even though a newer version is available from the manufacturer.

Step 1: Identify Your Hardware Model

Before downloading a driver, you need to know the exact hardware installed in your computer.

Open Device Manager and locate the hardware device you want to update.

Right-click the device and select Properties. The device name displayed here usually includes the manufacturer and model number.

If necessary, write down the complete model name. Downloading the wrong driver may prevent the hardware from functioning correctly.

Taking a few extra minutes to verify the model ensures you install the correct driver for your computer.

Step 2: Visit the Official Manufacturer’s Website

After identifying your hardware, open your web browser and visit the official support page provided by the hardware manufacturer.

If you’re updating a graphics card, visit the website of NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel, depending on your graphics hardware.

For audio and networking components, manufacturers such as Realtek often provide the latest driver downloads.

If you’re updating drivers for an entire laptop or desktop computer, visit your computer manufacturer’s support page. Companies such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, and ASUS provide drivers specifically designed for their systems.

Always download drivers from official websites instead of unknown third-party download sites. Official drivers are safer, more reliable, and less likely to contain outdated or modified software.

Step 3: Select the Correct Windows Version

Most manufacturers offer several versions of the same driver.

Choose the version that matches your operating system.

If you’re using Windows 11, download the Windows 11 driver whenever one is available.

If you’re using Windows 10, select the Windows 10 version.

Also, verify whether your system uses the 64-bit or 32-bit edition of Windows. Most modern computers use the 64-bit version, but selecting the correct architecture is still important for proper installation.

Downloading the correct version helps avoid compatibility issues and installation errors.

Step 4: Download and Install the Driver

Once you’ve selected the correct driver, download the installation file.

Most manufacturers provide an executable installer that automatically replaces the existing driver.

After the download finishes, double-click the installer and carefully follow the instructions shown on the screen.

During installation, your screen may briefly flicker if you’re updating graphics drivers. This is completely normal because Windows temporarily unloads the existing driver before activating the new one.

Allow the installer to complete every step without interrupting the process.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

After the installation completes, restart your computer.

Restarting ensures Windows loads the new driver during startup and allows all hardware components to initialize correctly.

After the restart, your device should begin using the latest driver version.

Additional Tip for Windows 11

Although many older Windows 10 drivers still function correctly in Windows 11, some manufacturers have released newer drivers specifically optimized for Microsoft’s latest operating system.

Whenever possible, download the Windows 11 version instead of using an older Windows 10 driver.

Drivers designed specifically for Windows 11 generally offer better compatibility, improved stability, and support for the latest Windows features.

Method 4: Update Drivers Using Third-Party Driver Update Software

If you prefer an automated solution, driver update software can scan your entire computer, identify outdated drivers, and install newer versions with very little effort.

These applications are particularly useful if your computer contains many hardware devices and you don’t want to search for each driver individually.

However, it is important to download driver update software only from reputable developers. Avoid unknown applications that promise unrealistic performance improvements or require unnecessary system permissions.

Step 1: Download and Install the Driver Update Software

Begin by visiting the official website of a trusted driver update application.

Download the installer and complete the installation process just as you would with any other Windows software.

After installation finishes, launch the program.

Step 2: Scan Your Computer

Most driver update programs include a Scan button on the main screen.

Start the scan and allow the software to inspect your computer.

The application compares your installed drivers with its online database and identifies outdated, missing, or incompatible drivers.

Depending on the number of hardware devices in your system, the scan may take several minutes to complete.

Step 3: Review the Available Driver Updates

After scanning, the software displays a list of drivers that can be updated.

Take a moment to review the results before beginning the installation.

Many programs allow you to update every outdated driver at once, while others let you select individual drivers that you want to install.

If you’re troubleshooting a specific hardware issue, updating only the affected device may be sufficient.

Step 4: Install the Driver Updates

After reviewing the list of available updates, begin the installation process.

Most driver update programs include an Update button beside each driver and an Update All option that installs every available driver in one session. If you’re only experiencing issues with one device, updating that specific driver first is a good idea. If your computer hasn’t been updated in a long time, installing all available driver updates can improve overall system stability and hardware compatibility.

During installation, the software downloads the latest driver files from its database and replaces the older versions installed on your computer. Depending on the number of drivers being updated, the process may take several minutes.

Avoid closing the program or shutting down your computer while the installation is in progress. Interrupting the process could leave a driver only partially installed, which may cause hardware problems.

Step 5: Restart Your Computer

Once all selected drivers have been installed, restart your computer.

A restart allows Windows to fully initialize the new drivers and ensures every updated hardware component begins using the latest software.

After restarting, test the hardware you updated. For example, check whether your internet connection is stable, verify your speakers are working correctly, or launch a game to confirm that your graphics driver is functioning properly.

Additional Tip for Windows 11

Most modern driver update applications support both Windows 10 and Windows 11. However, before installing any software, verify that the version you’re downloading is fully compatible with Windows 11.

Always download driver update software from its official website rather than third-party download portals. This reduces the risk of installing outdated software, bundled applications, or potentially unwanted programs.

Things to Keep in Mind When Updating Drivers in Windows

Updating drivers is generally a safe process, but following a few best practices can help prevent unnecessary issues and make recovery much easier if something doesn’t go as planned.

Step 1: Create a System Restore Point

Before installing important driver updates, especially for graphics cards, storage controllers, or chipset components, create a System Restore Point.

A restore point allows Windows to return your computer to its previous working state if a newly installed driver causes instability or hardware issues.

To create one, open Control Panel, select System and Security, then System, and choose System Protection. Click Create, enter a name for the restore point, and allow Windows to save your current system configuration.

Although driver updates rarely cause major problems, creating a restore point provides an extra layer of protection.

Step 2: Roll Back a Driver if Necessary

Occasionally, a newer driver may introduce unexpected issues such as screen flickering, audio problems, or unstable network connections.

If this happens, Windows allows you to return to the previous version using the Roll Back Driver feature.

Open Device Manager, locate the affected device, right-click it, and choose Properties. Open the Driver tab and select Roll Back Driver if the option is available.

Windows will restore the previously installed driver, allowing you to continue using your hardware while waiting for a newer and more stable release.

Step 3: Verify Driver Compatibility

Before downloading any driver manually, confirm that it matches your version of Windows.

Pay close attention to whether the driver is designed for Windows 10 or Windows 11, and verify whether your operating system uses the 64-bit or 32-bit architecture.

Installing an incompatible driver may result in installation failures or hardware malfunction.

Choosing the correct version from the beginning helps avoid unnecessary troubleshooting later.

Troubleshooting Driver Update Errors and Messages

Even when following the correct update procedure, Windows may occasionally display error messages during driver installation. Most of these issues are easy to resolve once you understand what they mean.

Error 1: “Windows Could Not Find Drivers for Your Device”

This message appears when Windows cannot locate a compatible driver.

Start by visiting the official website of your hardware manufacturer and downloading the latest driver manually. Return to Device Manager, choose Update driver, and select Browse my computer for drivers to install the downloaded files.

Also, verify that the driver matches your Windows version and system architecture. Running Windows Update before attempting another installation may also resolve the issue if your system requires additional updates.

Error 2: “The Best Drivers for Your Device Are Already Installed”

This message simply means Windows could not find a newer driver in Microsoft’s driver catalog.

It does not necessarily mean you already have the newest driver available.

Visit the manufacturer’s website and compare the installed driver version with the latest release. If a newer version exists, download it and install it manually.

If necessary, uninstall the existing driver through Device Manager, restart your computer, and then install the updated version.

Error 3: “This Device Cannot Start (Code 10)”

A Code 10 error usually indicates a driver problem or a hardware compatibility issue.

First, verify that the hardware is properly connected. If it’s an external device, disconnect and reconnect it.

Next, uninstall the driver through Device Manager, restart your computer, and reinstall the latest compatible driver.

If the problem continues, run the Windows hardware troubleshooter to detect and repair common hardware issues automatically.

Error 4: “Driver Is Not Digitally Signed”

Windows blocks unsigned drivers because they haven’t passed Microsoft’s security verification.

If you absolutely must install an unsigned driver from a trusted source, you can temporarily disable Driver Signature Enforcement through the Advanced Startup options or enable Test Mode using an elevated Command Prompt.

Once the driver has been installed, restore the default security settings to help keep your system protected.

Only install unsigned drivers if they come from a trusted hardware manufacturer or software developer.

Error 5: “This Update Is Not Applicable to Your Computer”

This error usually appears when the downloaded driver doesn’t match your hardware or operating system.

Double-check that you selected the correct Windows version, system architecture, and hardware model.

If necessary, revisit the manufacturer’s support page and download the correct driver before trying again.

Error 6: “Access Denied During Installation”

This error occurs when Windows doesn’t have permission to install the driver.

Right-click the installation file and select Run as administrator.

If you’re using a work or school computer, some administrative policies may prevent driver installation. In that situation, you’ll need assistance from your IT administrator.

Error 7: “Driver Installation Failed”

A failed installation may result from corrupted downloads, software conflicts, or damaged temporary files.

Download a fresh copy of the driver directly from the manufacturer’s website and try the installation again.

If the issue continues, restart Windows in Safe Mode and perform the installation there. Running Disk Cleanup to remove temporary files may also resolve installation problems.

Error 8: Blue Screen After Updating a Driver

A Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) following a driver update usually indicates that the installed driver is incompatible or corrupted.

Start Windows in Safe Mode, uninstall the problematic driver, and restart your computer.

If the issue persists, use Roll Back Driver or restore Windows using a previously created System Restore Point.

Once your system is stable again, download a newer driver version directly from the hardware manufacturer.

Error 9: “Request Timed Out” During Windows Update

This message generally indicates that Windows couldn’t communicate with Microsoft’s update servers.

Check that your internet connection is working properly and wait a little while before trying again.

If Windows Update continues to fail, manually download the driver from the Microsoft Update Catalog or directly from the hardware manufacturer’s website.

Error 10: “Your System Requires a Reboot to Complete Installation”

Some drivers cannot finish installing until Windows restarts.

Save your work and restart your computer as soon as possible.

After restarting, return to Windows Update to verify that there are no additional pending driver or system updates.

Additional Tips

1. Regularly checking for driver updates helps keep your computer running smoothly and reduces the likelihood of hardware-related problems. 
2. Whenever possible, download drivers directly from the official hardware manufacturer instead of unknown websites. 
3. Avoid installing beta drivers unless you specifically need new features or are testing pre-release software. 
4. Before updating important hardware, creating a System Restore Point provides an easy way to recover if something unexpected occurs. 
5. Finally, restart your computer after every driver update to ensure Windows loads the new driver correctly.

FAQs

Is it safe to update drivers on Windows 11 and Windows 10?

Yes. Updating drivers is generally safe when you use Windows Update, Device Manager, or the official hardware manufacturer’s website.

How often should I update my drivers?

Most users only need to check for driver updates every few months. However, graphics drivers are updated more frequently and may benefit gamers or users running professional design applications.

Should I update every driver on my computer?

Not necessarily. If your computer is working properly, you only need to update drivers when newer versions improve performance, fix bugs, resolve compatibility issues, or support new Windows features.

Can outdated drivers cause computer problems?

Yes. Old or corrupted drivers can lead to hardware failures, slow performance, application crashes, display issues, sound problems, and unstable internet connections.

Which driver update method is the best?

For most users, Windows Update and Device Manager are the safest options. If you need the newest features or performance improvements, downloading drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website is usually the best choice.

Summary

Updating drivers in Windows 11 and Windows 10 is an important part of maintaining a reliable and efficient computer. Whether you choose Device Manager, Windows Update, the manufacturer’s website, or trusted driver update software, each method helps ensure your hardware performs as expected. Understanding how to troubleshoot common driver errors, verify compatibility, and create a System Restore Point before making changes can save time and prevent unnecessary issues.

By keeping your drivers up to date and following safe installation practices, you’ll improve system stability, enhance hardware performance, and enjoy a smoother Windows experience.