How to Check Drivers on Windows 10
Checking drivers on Windows 10 is essential for ensuring that your hardware runs smoothly. In just a few steps, you can see which drivers are installed, verify if they’re up-to-date, and update them if necessary.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Check Drivers on Windows 10
This section will guide you through the straightforward steps you need to follow to check your drivers on Windows 10.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
To open Device Manager, press ‘Win+X’ and select ‘Device Manager’ from the menu.
Device Manager is the central hub for managing your hardware and drivers. This tool allows you to see all connected hardware, and each device’s driver status.
Step 2: Locate the Device
Find the device category you wish to check, click the arrow to expand it, and look for your specific device.
By expanding categories like ‘Display adapters’ or ‘Network adapters,’ you can see individual devices like your graphics card or network card.
Step 3: Check Driver Status
Right-click on the device and select ‘Properties,’ then switch to the ‘Driver’ tab.
The ‘Driver’ tab provides information such as the driver version and date. This can help you identify if your driver is outdated.
Step 4: Update the Driver
Click on ‘Update Driver’ to check for and install the latest driver.
Updating the driver ensures that you have the most recent fixes and improvements, which can help your hardware function better.
Step 5: Use Windows Update
Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Update & Security’ and click ‘Check for updates.’
Windows Update can automatically find and install the latest drivers for you, making the process even easier.
After completing these steps, your drivers will be checked, and any outdated drivers will be updated, ensuring optimal performance from your hardware.
Tips for How to Check Drivers on Windows 10
- Regular Checks: Make it a habit to check your drivers every few months.
- Backup Drivers: Before updating, consider backing up your current drivers.
- Use Manufacturer’s Website: For the best drivers, often the manufacturer’s website is more up-to-date than Windows Update.
- Third-Party Tools: There are reliable third-party tools that can automate driver checks and updates.
- Beware of Fake Drivers: Only download drivers from reputable sources to avoid malware.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are drivers in Windows 10?
Drivers are software that allow your operating system to communicate with hardware devices like printers, graphics cards, and network adapters.
How can I tell if my driver is outdated?
You can check the driver version and compare it with the latest version available on the manufacturer’s website.
Can I update all my drivers at once?
Yes, you can use Windows Update or third-party tools to update multiple drivers simultaneously.
Do I need to restart my computer after updating drivers?
Often, yes. Restarting ensures that the new drivers are correctly loaded and functioning.
Is it safe to download drivers from any website?
No, always download drivers from trusted sources like the manufacturer’s website or Windows Update to avoid malware.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate the device.
- Check driver status.
- Update the driver.
- Use Windows Update.
Conclusion
In summary, knowing how to check drivers on Windows 10 can save you from a lot of headaches down the road. By following the steps outlined above, you ensure that your hardware runs smoothly and efficiently. Regular driver checks, using reliable sources for updates, and staying vigilant against fake drivers are all part of maintaining a healthy device. If you’ve never checked your drivers before, now is the perfect time to start. Ensuring that your drivers are up-to-date can prevent many common issues and keep your system running like a well-oiled machine. So, take a few minutes, follow these steps, and give your computer the care it deserves!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.