Uninstalling drivers on Windows 10 might sound like a tech-heavy task, but it’s actually pretty simple. You just need to follow a few steps, and you’ll be done in no time. This guide will walk you through how to uninstall drivers on Windows 10 step by step.
How to Uninstall Drivers on Windows 10
By following the steps below, you’ll effectively remove old or unwanted drivers from your Windows 10 system. These steps are straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginners.
Step 1: Open Device Manager
First, press the Windows key + X, then select "Device Manager" from the menu.
Device Manager is the central hub for managing all your hardware devices. You’ll find it in the menu that pops up when you hit the Windows key + X. It lists every device connected to your computer and lets you tweak their settings.
Step 2: Locate the Device
Next, find the device whose driver you want to uninstall from the list.
The devices are grouped into categories like Display Adapters, Keyboards, and Network Adapters. Expand the category that contains your device by clicking on the arrow next to it.
Step 3: Open the Device’s Properties
Right-click on the device and select "Properties."
This action will open a new window showing various details about the device. The properties window is where you can update, roll back, disable, or uninstall the driver.
Step 4: Uninstall the Driver
Click on the "Driver" tab, then select "Uninstall Device."
A confirmation window will pop up asking if you’re sure you want to uninstall the driver. Make sure to check the box that says "Delete the driver software for this device" if you want to remove it completely from your system.
Step 5: Confirm the Action
Finally, click "Uninstall" in the confirmation window.
The system will then proceed to uninstall the driver. This may take a few moments. After it’s done, the device will no longer function until you install a new driver for it.
Once you’ve completed these steps, the driver will be uninstalled from your system. The device associated with the driver will no longer work until a new driver is installed. This can help resolve issues caused by outdated or corrupt drivers.
Tips for Uninstalling Drivers on Windows 10
- Always create a system restore point before uninstalling drivers. This will let you revert your system back if something goes wrong.
- Make sure you have the latest driver version downloaded before uninstalling the current one, especially if you plan to reinstall it.
- Use third-party driver uninstaller software for removing stubborn drivers that won’t uninstall through Device Manager.
- Check the manufacturer’s website for any specific instructions on uninstalling their drivers.
- After uninstalling a driver, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I uninstall a driver?
Uninstalling a driver will remove the software that enables the hardware to communicate with your computer. The hardware will stop working until a new driver is installed.
Can I reinstall a driver after uninstalling it?
Yes, you can reinstall a driver. Download the latest version from the manufacturer’s website and follow the installation instructions.
Will uninstalling a driver delete my files?
No, uninstalling a driver will not delete any of your personal files. It only removes the software that controls the hardware device.
Do I always need to uninstall old drivers before installing new ones?
It’s not always necessary, but it can help avoid conflicts. Some new drivers will automatically replace old ones during installation.
How can I find out if a driver needs to be uninstalled?
If you’re experiencing hardware issues or the device isn’t working properly, uninstalling and reinstalling the driver can often fix the problem.
Summary of Steps
- Open Device Manager.
- Locate the device.
- Open the device’s properties.
- Uninstall the driver.
- Confirm the action.
Conclusion
Uninstalling drivers on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can help resolve a variety of hardware issues. By following these steps, you can effectively remove any problematic drivers from your system.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to back up your system before making any changes. If you’re unsure about a step, don’t hesitate to seek additional help or consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Drivers are crucial for the proper functioning of your hardware, so make sure you have the latest versions installed. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who might benefit from learning how to uninstall drivers on Windows 10. Happy troubleshooting!
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.