How to Update Drivers on Windows 11

Although Windows 11, like Windows 10, typically installs device drivers during system updates, there are instances when this process may fail. In such cases, you may need to manually update or install drivers on your system.

If you’re wondering how to update drivers on your Windows 11 device, here’s a guide to help you through the process.

1. Update Windows 11
The easiest and safest method to update drivers on Windows 11 is by updating the operating system itself. Windows Update automatically installs drivers for common components like touchpads, USB controllers, and graphics cards.

To ensure you have the latest drivers, updating Windows 11 is a good start. Here’s how to do it:

1. Click the Start Button and select Settings.
2. In the Settings app, go to the Windows Update section on the left-hand side.
3. Click the Check for Updates button.

This will check for any system updates, including drivers, and install them automatically.

2. Install Driver Updates Manually from Optional Updates
Windows 11 offers an option to manually install specific driver updates through the Optional Updates section. This allows you to download and install only the driver updates, rather than a full system update. Here’s how
1. Click the Start Button and select Settings.
2. Go to Windows Update on the left side of the Settings window.
3. Scroll down and click Advanced Options.
4. Under Additional Options, click on Optional Updates.
5. Expand the Driver Updates section.
6. Select the drivers you want to install and click Download & Install.

This method allows you to pick which drivers you want to update, giving you more control over the process.

3. Update Drivers via Device Manager
You can also use the built-in Device Manager to update drivers manually. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Search bar and type Device Manager. Select it from the list.
2. Find the device you want to update from the list and expand its category.
3. Right-click on the device and choose Update driver.
4. You’ll have two options in the Update Driver window:
– Search automatically for drivers: This allows Windows 11 to find and install the latest driver.
– Browse my computer for drivers: This allows you to manually choose a driver from your files.

5. If you choose the first option and Windows says, “The best driver for your device is already installed,” you can click Search for updated drivers on Windows Update.
6. If you selected the second option, browse for the driver file or choose Let me pick from a list of available drivers on my computer.
7. Select the appropriate driver from the list and click Next to install it.

4. Download Drivers from Official Websites
Another reliable method to update drivers is by visiting the manufacturer’s website and downloading the latest drivers manually. For example, if you’ve installed new hardware, such as a sound device or graphics card, you can go to the manufacturer’s official website to find the appropriate drivers.

After downloading the driver, install it by running the installation file. This method is especially useful for hardware devices like sound cards, GPUs, WiFi cards, and more.

5. Use Third-Party Driver Updater Tools
There are third-party tools available that can automatically scan your system and update drivers. Many of these tools designed for Windows 10 are compatible with Windows 11. While they provide a convenient way to manage driver updates, be cautious. Some third-party driver updaters may install unwanted software or adware.

If you choose to use third-party software, ensure it’s from a reputable source. Trusted tools can simplify driver updates and help you keep your system running smoothly.

While Windows 11 typically handles driver updates through system updates, there are times when manual updates are necessary. Whether you update through Windows Update, Device Manager, or by downloading from official websites, following the steps above will help ensure your device drivers are always up to date, improving your system’s performance and stability. Learn More