Resetting your drivers on Windows 10 can fix a variety of issues, such as hardware malfunctions or performance problems. This article will guide you through the process with easy-to-follow steps. By the end, your system should be running smoothly again.
How to Reset Drivers on Windows 10
Resetting drivers on Windows 10 involves uninstalling and then reinstalling them. This process can help resolve driver-related problems. Follow these steps to get your drivers back to their default state.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, you need to access the Device Manager.
You can do this by right-clicking the Start menu and selecting "Device Manager." This tool is a hub where you can view and manage all the hardware connected to your computer.
Step 2: Find the Device to Reset
Locate the hardware device you want to reset.
Drivers are specific to each piece of hardware, so you need to identify the problematic device. It could be under categories like "Display adapters" or "Network adapters."
Step 3: Uninstall the Driver
Right-click the device and choose "Uninstall device."
A window will pop up asking for confirmation. Make sure to check the box that says "Delete the driver software for this device" if you see it. Click "Uninstall" to proceed.
Step 4: Reboot Your Computer
After uninstalling, restart your computer.
Rebooting allows Windows to complete the removal, and it often will automatically reinstall the driver. If not, you can manually install it in the next step.
Step 5: Reinstall the Driver
Open Device Manager again and click "Scan for hardware changes."
Windows will search for newly connected hardware and reinstall the missing driver. If it doesn’t appear, you might need to download the driver from the manufacturer’s website and install it manually.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your device should be running the default drivers, potentially resolving any issues you were experiencing.
Tips for Resetting Drivers on Windows 10
- Backup Drivers: Before starting, it’s a good idea to back up your current drivers. You can use third-party software for this.
- Update Drivers First: Sometimes, simply updating your drivers can solve the problem without needing a full reset.
- Check Device Status: In Device Manager, check for any warning symbols next to your devices. This can help identify which drivers are problematic.
- Use Safe Mode: If you can’t access Device Manager normally, try booting your computer in Safe Mode.
- Look for Driver Rollback: If a recent update is causing issues, you can use the "Roll Back Driver" option instead of uninstalling.
Frequently Asked Questions about Resetting Drivers on Windows 10
What does resetting a driver do?
Resetting a driver reinstalls its default settings, which can fix hardware issues.
Will I lose my files if I reset my drivers?
No, uninstalling and reinstalling drivers will not affect your files.
Can I reset all my drivers at once?
You can uninstall multiple drivers, but it’s usually best to do them one at a time to identify specific issues.
Do I need an internet connection?
Yes, especially if you need to download drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
What if Windows doesn’t reinstall the driver?
You may need to manually download and install the driver from the manufacturer’s website.
Summary
- Open Device Manager.
- Find the Device to Reset.
- Uninstall the Driver.
- Reboot Your Computer.
- Reinstall the Driver.
Conclusion
Resetting drivers on Windows 10 can often be the magic bullet for solving hardware and performance issues. This straightforward process involves accessing the Device Manager, uninstalling the driver, and then allowing Windows to reinstall it. Sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best, and this is a prime example. If you encounter any hiccups, remember there are always additional resources and community forums that can offer guidance. For more detailed troubleshooting, you might consider diving deeper into specific driver issues or even reaching out to professional support. Happy computing!
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.