How to Install Device Drivers on Windows Vista PC's

Windows Vista, by default, is compatible with all previously produced drivers.  With an estimated 20,000 drivers, it has more drivers than any previous operating system.  Going to the Windows website in addition to making sure you have your Windows Updates set to automatic, will help keep Vista up-to-date on most drivers. 

Device Manager

Before doing anything, check your existing drivers.  To do this, open the device manager (you can easily find this in the Control Panel). 

Scan through the devices and device drivers.  Make sure there are no yellow exclamation marks or question marks.  If you find any of these, right-click on the device and select Properties. 

Installing Drivers

Before installing any new drivers, always make sure your PC has the latest version of DirectX installed.  Check the Microsoft website to download and install it. 

When installing a driver, always start with the chipset driver.  These drivers are most closely associated with the motherboard and ensure proper function and compatibility between all other drivers and the PC hardware.  Next, you should install Video, Sound, and then Network drivers.

Upgrading Drivers

In the Device Manager, locate the device you want to update the drivers for and right-click.  Select Properties and then the Drivers tab.  Click the Update Driver button and the Hardware Update Wizard loads.  Follow the directions to update the driver.

Rolling Back Drivers

Occasionally, a newly installed driver malfunctions or fails to meet expectations of the user.  To roll back to your previous driver, go into the Device Manager; select the device and right-click to select Properties.  Go to the Drivers tab and select Rollback Drivers.

Device Drivers from CD

Some computers or operating systems include CDs with the PC that contain all of the needed drivers for default devices. Printers in particular often come with CDs that enable you to install the proper driver to your PC. Simply insert the CD, select the Windows Vista drivers file, and click "Next" and "I agree" as needed. Try checking the website of the manufacturer of the device for device driver updates.

Why You Should Use Caution When You Download Drivers

Searching the internet for the most recent drivers is convenient if you’re careful and know what you’re doing.  Stick with the device manufacturers’ websites and only download official drivers (as opposed to beta or prerelease versions). 

This ensures compatibility with your PC and prevents you from accidentally downloading the wrong driver or worse, accidentally downloading a virus or malicious program onto your PC.

Using the information given about the device found in the Device Manager (right-click on the device and select properties), search for, download, and install the proper driver for the device.

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