How to Update Missing Drivers on Your PC (Graphics, Sound, etc.) – A Complete Guide
Missing or outdated drivers can cause performance issues, hardware malfunctions, and even system crashes. Whether you’re dealing with graphics, sound, network, or other hardware drivers, keeping them updated is crucial for optimal PC performance.
This guide will walk you through manually updating drivers in Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, ensuring your system runs smoothly without relying on third-party tools.
Why Should You Update Your Drivers?
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand why driver updates matter:
✔ Better Performance – New drivers optimize hardware functionality (e.g., GPU drivers improve gaming performance).
✔ Bug Fixes & Stability – Updates fix known issues, preventing crashes and errors.
✔ Security Patches – Outdated drivers can expose your system to vulnerabilities.
✔ New Features – Manufacturers often add support for new technologies.
If your sound isn’t working, display looks glitchy, or a device isn’t recognized, a driver update may be the solution.
Method 1: Manually Update Drivers via Device Manager
This is the official Windows method for updating drivers without third-party software.
Step 1: Download the Correct Driver Package
Visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Realtek, Intel).
Download the latest driver for your specific hardware model.
If the file is compressed (ZIP/RAR), extract it to your Desktop for easy access.
Step 2: Open Device Manager
| Windows Version | How to Open Device Manager |
|---|---|
| Windows 7 / 10 | Click Start → Type "Device Manager" → Press Enter |
| Windows 8 / 8.1 | Press Win + S → Type "Device Manager" → Press Enter |
| Windows 11 | Right-click Start → Select "Device Manager" |
Step 3: Locate the Device with Missing/Outdated Drivers
Expand the category (e.g., Display adapters for GPU, Sound, video & game controllers for audio).
Right-click the device → Select "Update driver".
Step 4: Manually Install the Driver
Choose "Browse my computer for drivers".
Click "Browse" and navigate to the driver folder (e.g., Desktop).
Check "Include subfolders" → Click Next.
Windows will install the driver → Restart your PC if prompted.
✅ Done! Your driver should now be updated.
Method 2: Automatic Driver Update via Windows Update
Windows Update sometimes provides driver updates, though they may not always be the latest.
Steps:
Press Win + I → Go to Update & Security.
Click "Check for updates" → Install any optional driver updates.
Restart your PC if required.
Note: This method is convenient but may not always have the newest drivers.
Method 3: Update Drivers via Manufacturer’s Tool
Some hardware companies provide auto-update tools:
NVIDIA → GeForce Experience
AMD → Adrenalin Software
Intel → Driver & Support Assistant
Realtek → Official audio driver installer
✔ Pros: Automatic updates.
❌ Cons: Can install unnecessary bloatware.
Troubleshooting Driver Issues
1. Driver Fails to Install?
Ensure you downloaded the correct version (32-bit vs. 64-bit).
Run the installer as Administrator.
Temporarily disable antivirus (it may block installations).
2. Device Still Not Recognized?
Try uninstalling the old driver first (Device Manager → Right-click → Uninstall device).
Reboot → Let Windows reinstall the driver automatically.
3. Roll Back a Problematic Driver
If a new driver causes issues:
Open Device Manager → Right-click the device → Properties.
Go to the Driver tab → Click "Roll Back Driver".
Conclusion
Updating drivers manually via Device Manager is the safest and most reliable method. However, using Windows Update or manufacturer tools can also be effective.
Need Help?
If you encounter issues, contact us for support.
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By following this guide, you should now have all necessary drivers installed, ensuring smooth performance for gaming, audio, and overall system stability.
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