How to Update Drivers on PC (Windows 10/11)

Aug. 10, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

how-to-update-drivers-on-pc-windows

If your computer is running slowly, devices are not functioning properly, or your game frame rates are less than ideal, it's likely due to outdated or improperly installed drivers.

Drivers are the bridge between your hardware and operating system, and keeping them up to date helps improve system performance, enhance device compatibility, and fix potential issues.

This article will introduce several ways to update drivers in Windows 10/11, suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

1. Why Update Drivers Regularly?

Updating drivers can bring the following benefits:

Improve hardware performance (e.g., graphics cards, network cards, printers)
Fix known compatibility issues and vulnerabilities
Gain new features and better stability
Prevent blue screens, device malfunctions, and other errors

2. Common Methods to Update Drivers

Method 1: Using Windows Update

Press Win + I to open Settings, then select "Update & Security".

Click "Windows Update" > "Check for updates".

check-for-updates

If driver updates are available, the system will automatically download and install them.

After the update is complete, it's recommended to restart your computer.

Best for: Beginner users. However, it may not always provide the latest driver versions.

Method 2: Using Driver Talent

If you're unsure of your device model or want to save time searching manually, use a professional driver management tool. Driver Talent is recommended, as it can automatically detect, back up, download, and install drivers quickly and efficiently.

Download Driver Talent

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent. After installation, open the software and click "Scan" — the system will detect the status of all drivers.
Once scanning is complete, you'll see which drivers are missing or outdated. Find the drivers you want to update in the results list and click "Update".

driver-update

After updating, restart your computer to ensure the new drivers take effect.

Advantages: Simple, efficient, and suitable for all users, especially systems with missing or corrupted drivers.

Method 3: Download from the Hardware Manufacturer's Website

Confirm your device model and operating system version (e.g., Windows 10 64-bit).

Visit the official website of the hardware manufacturer (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, Realtek, HP, Lenovo).

Go to the "Support" or "Driver Download" page, search for your device, and download the appropriate driver.

search-for-your-device

Run the installer and complete the installation.

Restart your computer after installation.

Best for: Advanced users who want the newest and most stable driver versions.

Method 4: Updating via Device Manager

Right-click the Start menu and select "Device Manager".

Locate the device you want to update (e.g., Display adapters, Network adapters).

Right-click the device and select "Update driver".

Choose "Search automatically for drivers" to search online, or "Browse my computer for drivers" to manually select a downloaded driver.

browse-my-computer-for-drivers

Follow the prompts to complete the installation and restart the system if necessary.

Best for: Intermediate users who prefer more flexibility.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if the system becomes unstable after a driver update?

A: Try rolling back the driver. In Device Manager, right-click the device > Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver.

Q2: How can I tell if a driver update was successful?

A: If no yellow warning icons appear in Device Manager and the device functions normally, the update was likely successful. You can also check if the driver version number has changed.

Q3: Are third-party driver tools safe?

A: Choose reputable products like Driver Talent, which offer high reliability and security.