Windows 11 typically updates drivers automatically. However, there are specific scenarios where you might need to run these updates yourself. It could be because you’ve paused the automatic update feature. You may also have added new hardware or bought a new device.
Whatever the case, it would be helpful to have a set of instructions on how to get your computer functioning optimally. This guide will walk you through the various methods you can use to update drivers on Windows 11. Let’s get to it.
Update Windows 11
Microsoft updates drivers automatically as part of the OS update. So, you would need to update Windows 11 to ensure you have the latest driver versions available. Check out how to update your OS.
- Open Windows and navigate to “Settings.”
- Press the “Windows Update” tab on the left side of the screen.
- Click on any updates that might be available. Hit “Download and Install” and wait for the updates to download.
- Restart your computer to complete the process.
With Windows 11 updated, your drivers should be updated as well.
Update Windows 11 Drivers Using Device Manager
The Device Manager is one of the most common ways to update Windows 11 drivers and is an integral part of the Control Panel. The steps below will show you how to update drivers using the Device Manager.
- Go to “Settings” in Windows and click on “Device Manager.”
- Click through the “Disk drivers.”
- Right-click on the one you want to update. Press “Update Driver” from the pop-up menu.
- Tap “Search automatically for drivers” in the new window that opens.
Your drivers will now be updated.
Update Windows 11 Drivers From the Manufacturers’ Website
It’s possible to update your drivers manually through the manufacturer’s website. Going directly to the source is a quick and easy way of ensuring that all your components are up to date. Follow the steps shown here to update your drivers using this method.
- Head to your device manufacturer’s website.
- Locate and download the latest drivers.
- Press “Browse” for them to start updating.
- Restart your device to complete the process.
Stay Up to Date
Drivers are an integral part of your device hardware. It’s essential to keep them updated, and to this end, Windows has tried to help out. The OS will update the software automatically, but you might need to step in and handle things yourself every once in a while.
This guide outlines the various methods you can use to do that. It also points you to programs you can procure that can take over this task. Whatever solution you pick, the goal is to ensure your device is functioning at its peak level.
Have you updated drivers in Windows 11? Which method did you use? Let us know in the comments below.
Disclaimer: Some pages on this site may include an affiliate link. This does not effect our editorial in any way.