While Microsoft may offer a recent driver that’s fully compatible with Windows 10, it may not be the latest issued for that component, like a hotfix or a beta driver. Here, we need to split this section into two parts: Microsoft and Manufacturer. Use Device ManagerĪnother way to update device drivers is through the Device Manager. You can safely grab the latest driver directly through them, which we go over below. The only exception in this scenario is for discrete graphics built by AMD and Nvidia. While you can go to a component manufacturer’s website and download newer drivers, using drivers issued through your PC’s manufacturer is a more streamlined process.

You’ll see updates to your PC’s BIOS, networking components, onboard graphics (and other hardware), and more. What’s important to note here is that these drivers are optimized for your specific system. Run this program to see if the manufacturer provides new updates, including BIOS upgrades. On the Start menu, they’re typically listed under the OEM’s (original equipment manufacture) name, like Dell or HP, or under the PC’s brand, like Alienware. Many pre-built desktops and laptops include a proprietary desktop program that downloads and installs driver updates. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check for separate updates even after you’ve downloaded the latest OS upgrade. That means that, while driver updates still happen, they are no longer connected to big Windows updates in the same way. In 2020, Microsoft separated driver updates from broader operating system updates for Windows in an attempt to reduce update bugs. Even if you have automatic updates turned on, check to make sure that you don’t need to restart to fully complete an important update.

If an update is available here, close your other apps and start the update. You can choose Check for updates to refresh the search for new options. Step 2: The Windows Update section will appear with any information on missing updates or other required actions. Step 1: Select the search box on the taskbar and type “Updates.” This will bring up an option called Check for Updates. Here’s why Nvidia’s shots against AMD drivers just don’t add up

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