Updating drivers on a Windows 10 PC isn’t rocket science. It’s actually pretty straightforward if you know where to look. All you need to do is access the Device Manager, find the device you want to update, and let Windows do the rest. By updating your drivers, you ensure that your hardware runs optimally, avoiding pesky issues like lagging, crashes, or even hardware malfunctions.
How to Update Drivers on PC Windows 10
Updating drivers on Windows 10 will keep your hardware and software in sync, ensuring smooth performance. Follow these steps to easily update your drivers.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, open the Device Manager.
To do this, simply right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager” from the menu that appears.
Step 2: Locate the Device
Next, locate the device you want to update.
In the Device Manager window, you’ll see a list of all the hardware installed on your PC. Expand the categories by clicking on the arrow next to each category to find the device you’re looking for.
Step 3: Right-click the Device
Then, right-click on the device that needs updating.
A context menu will pop up. From this menu, select “Update driver.”
Step 4: Select Update Option
Now, select the option to update the driver.
You’ll see two options: “Search automatically for updated driver software” or “Browse my computer for driver software.” Choose the first option if you want Windows to find the latest driver for you.
Step 5: Install the Driver
Finally, allow the driver to install.
Windows will search for the latest driver and, if found, will install it automatically. You might need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
After completing these steps, your computer should run more efficiently with the updated drivers. If no updates are found, your drivers are already up-to-date.
Tips for Updating Drivers on PC Windows 10
- Always create a system restore point before updating drivers. This way, you can revert back if something goes wrong.
- Use the manufacturer’s website for the most reliable drivers, especially for graphics and network cards.
- Consider using a driver update tool if you’re not comfortable doing it manually.
- Regularly checking for driver updates can prevent many common PC issues.
- If you experience issues after updating a driver, you can roll back the driver to the previous version through the Device Manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I update my drivers?
Updating drivers ensures that your hardware functions correctly and efficiently. It can resolve compatibility issues, improve performance, and fix bugs.
What if I can’t find my device in Device Manager?
If you can’t find your device, it might be hidden. Click on “View” in the Device Manager and select “Show hidden devices.”
Can I update all drivers at once?
It’s possible to update multiple drivers at once using third-party software, but it’s usually safer to update drivers one at a time to avoid potential issues.
Do I need to restart my PC after updating drivers?
In most cases, yes. Restarting your computer ensures that the new drivers are properly installed and functioning.
Can updating drivers cause problems?
While rare, updating drivers can sometimes cause issues. Always create a system restore point before updating so you can revert back if needed.
Step-by-Step Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate the device.
- Right-click the device.
- Select update option.
- Install the driver.
Conclusion
Updating drivers on your Windows 10 PC is like giving your hardware a tune-up. By keeping drivers up-to-date, you’re ensuring that your system runs smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re a gamer looking to get the best performance or just trying to keep your work computer in top shape, updated drivers can make a world of difference. Don’t be afraid to dive into the Device Manager and explore—it’s easier than you think!
If you’re looking for more in-depth information or advanced tips, consider checking out more detailed guides or tutorials online. Keeping your PC in good health is all about staying informed and proactive. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.