How to Automatically Install Missing Drivers
By John Smith
Drivers are installed on your computer when you connect a new hardware device. Most of the drivers for your system come installed or are installed when you set up your Windows operating system. These software files are key to making the hardware recognizable within Windows. If the drivers are missing, whether accidentally deleted or because of an unknown malfunction, the hardware device associated with the drivers will stop working. On top of that, the computer may no longer even recognize the device type. You can check for missing drivers and have Windows automatically install the missing drivers.
Click "Start" and type "Check for Updates" in the search box. Click on the link entitled "Check for Updates."
Click "Check for Updates" on the left hand pane to make Windows automatically search for any and all updates recommended for your system. After a few seconds, an option to "Download and Install Updates" will appear.
Click "Install Updates." Windows will update all Windows and Microsoft products that have updates or are missing system files, including missing drivers. Once the update finishes, agree to let Windows restart your system.
Click "Start" then type "Device manager" in the search box. Under the Control Panel search results, select "Device Manager." This will show all the devices connected to your system, including devices that Windows doesn't recognize.
Check the driver list for any devices that have a yellow question mark. These marks show errors with a device and will highlight any remaining devices that are still missing drivers. Right-click on any device that has an error and click "Update Driver Software."
Select "Search automatically for updated driver software." Windows will search for the best applicable drivers and install them for you. Click "OK" when the drivers are found to allow Windows to complete the install. You may need to restart your computer for the device to start working.
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Writer Bio
John Smith began writing back in 2003. Smith is a technology writer currently living in Lansing, Mich. His articles have appeared in online publications including PC World and IGN, where he specializes in mobile apps for both Android and iOS.