Keeping your PC’s drivers up to date is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve performance, fix hardware compatibility issues, and boost security. In 2025, checking for Driver Updates is easier than ever, thanks to improved Windows tools and reliable third-party software. Still, knowing the right process helps you avoid unnecessary downloads, malware risks, and performance problems.
This guide explains what drivers are, why updating them matters, and the safest ways to check and install Driver Updates on Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2025: Here’s How to Watch
What Are Drivers?
A driver is software that allows your operating system to communicate with your computer’s hardware. Without drivers, devices such as your mouse, keyboard, printer, or graphics card wouldn’t work properly.
Common devices that need drivers include:
- Mice and keyboards
- Printers and scanners
- Graphics and sound cards
- Network adapters
- External storage drives
Windows can automatically install drivers for newly connected devices using Windows Update. It can also provide updated drivers for existing devices.
Why Driver Updates Matter in 2025
Drivers act as the “translator” between your hardware and operating system. Outdated drivers can cause:
- Poor gaming or app performance
- Hardware malfunctions (e.g., printer not working, Wi-Fi disconnecting)
- Security vulnerabilities
- Incompatibility with new software or Windows updates
Manufacturers regularly release Driver Updates to fix bugs, improve stability, and unlock new features. Skipping these updates can leave your system slow and vulnerable.
How to Check for Driver Updates on Windows 10 & 11
1. Using Device Manager
Device Manager lets you manually check and install driver updates.
- Open Device Manager
- Press Windows + X → select Device Manager.
- Find the Device
- Scroll to locate the hardware you want to update.
- Update the Driver
- Right-click → select Update driver.
- Search Automatically
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
- Install Updates
If a new driver is found, Windows will install it.
2. Using Windows Update
Windows Update can automatically install the latest drivers along with security patches.
- Open Settings
- Press Windows + I.
- Go to Update & Security
- Click Windows Update.
- Check for Updates
- Select Check for updates.
- Enable Automatic Updates
- Go to Advanced options → toggle on Automatic updates.
How to Check If Your Drivers Are Up to Date
- Check the Installed Version
- Open Device Manager → Right-click the device → Properties → Driver tab.
- Compare with Manufacturer’s Website
- Visit the official support page (e.g., NVIDIA, Intel, AMD) and compare version numbers.
- Update if Needed
- Download and install the latest version if yours is outdated.
Using Manufacturer Websites for Driver Updates
Some hardware requires full-feature drivers from the manufacturer rather than Windows Update.
Popular manufacturer sites:
- Intel: downloadcenter.intel.com
- AMD: amd.com
- NVIDIA: nvidia.com
- Dell: dell.com/support
- HP: support.hp.com
- Lenovo: support.lenovo.com
Steps:
- Identify your device model via Device Manager.
- Visit the manufacturer’s support page.
- Select your operating system.
- Download and install the latest driver.
- Restart your PC.
- Automated Driver Update Software
If you want convenience, automated driver tools can scan your entire PC and update outdated drivers.
Advantages:
- Saves time
- Reduces installation errors
- Can schedule automatic updates
Tip: Only use trusted software like manufacturer-provided tools or reputable programs.
When to Update Drivers
Update your drivers if:
- A device isn’t working correctly
- You see frequent errors or crashes
- You install new hardware
- You want better gaming performance
How to Update Drivers on macOS
Mac updates drivers automatically through macOS updates.
- Click the Apple logo → System Settings.
- Go to General → Software Update.
- Install available updates.
Rolling Back a Driver
If a new driver causes problems:
- Open Device Manager → Right-click the device → Properties.
- Go to the Driver tab → Select Roll Back Driver.
Best Practices for Driver Updates in 2025
Create a system restore point before updates.
- Avoid unofficial drivers.
- Keep backup copies of stable drivers.
- Check for updates every 1–2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): How to Update Drivers on PC 2025
1. How often should I check for driver updates?
Every 1–2 months, or when hardware issues occur.
2. Can outdated drivers cause crashes?
Yes. They can cause instability, blue screens, and errors.
3. How to check my whole PC for driver updates?
Use Windows Update, Device Manager, or trusted automated tools.
4. How do I know how to update drivers?
Follow step-by-step guides in Device Manager, Windows Update, or manufacturer websites.
5. How to check if your PC needs drivers?
Look for malfunctioning devices in Device Manager marked with a yellow warning icon.
6. Are third-party driver updaters safe?
Only if from trusted sources.
7. Do driver updates improve gaming performance?
Yes, especially GPU updates from NVIDIA or AMD.
8. Can I skip optional driver updates?
Yes, unless they address security or performance issues.
9. Will Windows automatically update drivers?
Yes, but it may not install the newest available.
10. Can a bad driver update be undone?
Yes, using the “Roll Back Driver” option.
11. Do I need internet to update drivers?
Yes, unless the update file is already downloaded.
12. Are beta drivers worth installing?
Only for experienced users testing new features.
Conclusion
In 2025, keeping your PC’s drivers updated is essential for performance, security, and compatibility. Whether you use Windows Update, Device Manager, manufacturer tools, or reputable automated software, make Driver Updates a regular part of your maintenance routine. By following safe update practices, you’ll keep your system stable, secure, and ready for anything.
