Check for driver updates on a PC regularly. It helps fix hardware problems and improve performance. Drivers allow your computer to connect with devices smoothly. Updating drivers keeps your system safe and fast.
Here, I will explain all working methods simply. Follow each step to update drivers the right way.
also read: How to Access Your Android from Your PC in 2025
Use Windows Update to Check for Driver Updates on a PC
Windows Update is the most common update tool. It works automatically but can also be done manually. This method works on both Windows 10 and 11.
- Click on the Start Menu on your screen
- Open Settings from the start menu or search
- Press Windows + I to open Settings quickly
- In Windows 10, click Update & Security
- In Windows 11, go straight to Windows Update
- Click on Check for updates to start search
- Windows will now check for all available updates
- This includes drivers and system-related updates too
- If updates are available, click Install now button
- Wait for updates to download and install properly
- Your system may ask for a restart after update
- Follow instructions to reboot and complete installation
This tool mostly finds the right drivers easily. It keeps your system stable and secure.
Use Device Manager to Check for Driver Updates on a PC
Device Manager gives more control over hardware updates. Use this if Windows Update doesn’t help.
- Open the Start Menu or press Windows key
- Type Device Manager in search and open it
- You’ll see a list of all device categories
- Find the device that you want to update manually
- For example: Bluetooth, audio, USB, display, etc.
- Click the small arrow next to the device name
- Right-click on the correct hardware from the list
- Select the option Update driver from the menu
- Choose Search automatically for drivers option
- Windows will search for best drivers online
- If found, follow prompts to complete installation
- If already up to date, message will say so
- You may need to restart system after update completes
Use Device Manager if your hardware is not working. It can help fix minor hardware-related bugs.
Use Manufacturer Website to Check for Driver Updates on a PC
Sometimes, Windows does not provide full-feature drivers. In such cases, download from the device brand site.
Step 1: Know Your Hardware Details
- You need device name and model number
- For laptops, use laptop brand and model number
- For separate parts, check their model name online
- Open Device Manager to find device details too
Step 2: Visit the Official Manufacturer Site
Use trusted links to access support pages safely
- Some major websites include:
- Intel: downloadcenter.intel.com
- AMD: amd.com
- NVIDIA: nvidia.com
- Dell: dell.com/support
- HP: support.hp.com
- Lenovo: support.lenovo.com
Step 3: Locate the driver or downloads section
- Go to Support, Drivers, or Downloads tab
- Enter your device model and choose operating system
- Select the correct driver from the list provided
Step 4: Download and install the driver
- Click the Download link near the driver file
- Some files come with an installer package
- Double-click installer and follow setup instructions
- If file is in ZIP format, extract it first
- After extraction, run setup file to begin install
- Restart your PC after installation finishes successfully
If you have a Mac, you don’t need to do this. Mac updates drivers with macOS software update itself.
When to Check for Driver Updates on a PC
Driver updates are not always required. But update if you see these issues:
- Your device is not working or misbehaving
- You see error messages or system lagging
- Mouse, keyboard, or printer work improperly
- You install new hardware like GPU or webcam
- Security issues are linked to specific drivers
- You need extra features from hardware software
Gamers should update graphics drivers regularly.
- NVIDIA and AMD give performance boosts in updates
- Download GeForce Experience or AMD Software
- Use them to update GPU drivers automatically
Avoid using third-party driver updaters online.
- These apps may install wrong or unsafe drivers
- Always prefer Windows Update or official websites
If your device has extra software, use that too:
- Right-click its icon from system tray area
- Open its settings panel and check for updates
- For example, Logitech, Razer, or AMD tools
This method gives you full control of your device.
Manual Installation for ZIP Files or Advanced Users
Some drivers come in ZIP folders with no installer.
- First, download the ZIP and extract it properly
- Go to Device Manager and find your device
- Right-click device and select Update driver
- Choose Browse my computer for drivers option
- Click Browse and go to the extracted folder
- Select any .inf file and click Next
- Windows will install the selected driver manually
- Restart the computer if asked during this process
This method is helpful for advanced Windows users. It is used when automatic installation fails to work.
How to Update Drivers on a Mac
Mac devices handle driver updates with macOS updates.
- Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner
- Select System Settings or System Preferences
- Go to General > Software Update tab
- If update is available, click Update Now
- Your Mac will download and install new updates
- This includes drivers for all built-in hardware
If a downloaded app fails, go to Privacy & Security
- Click Open Anyway to allow the blocked driver
- Follow instructions to complete the driver setup
Mac users usually don’t need manual driver updates. Updates are included with system improvements.
As We Conclude
Check for driver updates on a PC regularly. It improves speed, fixes errors, and adds new features. Use Windows Update, Device Manager, or official sites.
Avoid unsafe apps or third-party tools online. Gamers and power users should always update drivers manually. Follow these simple steps for a smooth, error-free system.
