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How to Identify and Fix Outdated Drivers Using Online Driver Scanners

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Updating the Windows device drivers is integral for optimal performance and security concerns.

At times, compatibility and stability issues might occur, eventually decreasing the computer’s performance. Similarly, issues like unstable internet connections, flickering screens, the inability to detect keyboards, and various other problems can cause frustration.

Thus, updating drivers to their latest versions can add new features and enhance your hardware.

This guide will specify how to use an online driver scanner to identify and mitigate outdated drivers.

So, let’s explore different methods of updating outdated drivers using online drivers.

What Are Device Drivers?

Device drivers are software that allows your communication to send information with its hardware components. It might include:

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  • Graphic cards.
  • Printer.
  • Web camera.
  • Mice.
  • Keyboards.

Therefore, updating drivers ensures your hardware functions effectively and takes benefits of new features and security updates.

Similarly, drivers play an integral role in your computer’s smooth operation. Without an updated driver, you may experience hardware malfunctions or poor performance.

Common Signs Your Driver Needs Updating

The common signs that your device requires an update are below.

  • Usual system errors and messages.
  • Hardware devices are not working correctly or at all.
  • Frequent system crashes and blue screens.
  • Decrease system performance.

Ways To Check Outdated Drivers On Computer

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You can use the following techniques to check for outdated drivers on a computer.

Use Device Manager

One effective method to mitigate the hardware issues a Windows computer faces is to use the Device Manager. Here’s how you can do this:

  • You need to open the Device Manager.
  • Click on the Start menu or press the Windows key.
  • Type “device manager” in the search bar.
  • Select the Device Manager from the search results.

In the Device Manager, look at the list of devices for any entries with a yellow exclamation mark next to them. Therefore, this mark signifies an issue with the device, possibly due to an outdated or missing driver or other hardware problems.

Thus, regularly checking the Device Manager for warning icons and keeping your device drivers up to date can help ensure your computer’s hardware components operate smoothly.

Use Third Party Tool

Various third-party tools are available that can streamline the process of keeping your computer’s drivers up to date.

These tools scan your system to identify outdated or missing drivers and can automatically download and install the latest versions. This saves time and ensures that your PC runs smoothly and efficiently.

Some famous examples of such tools include Driver Booster, Driver Genius, and Snappy Driver Installer.

Each application has its own set of features, but they all serve the primary purpose of keeping your drivers current, which is crucial for optimal system performance and stability.

Using Windows Updates

This is a very simple step that you can take to identify any issue and fix outdated drivers.

All you need to do is:

  • Go to settings.
  • Click on update and security.
  • Windows Update and check for updates.

Here, Windows will send you automatic updates on your device. If any are available, it will prompt you to install them.

How To Update Drivers With Online Driver Scanners?

You can update outdated drivers using an online driver scanner in the following method:

  • Search for the device manager in the taskbar search box.
  • Click on a category to see device names.
  • Right-click the device that you want to update.
  • Click the option to update your driver.
  • Select search automatically for updated driver software.
  • If Windows does not find a new driver, you can look for one device’s manufacturer’s website.

On the other hand, if you want to update the online driver scanner through a website, then you need to:

  • Go to the device manufacturer’s website.
  • Search for driver updates in the support segment.
  • Then, follow the installation process on the website.

How To Use Online Driver Scanners Safely?

Using online driver updater software on your client’s computer requires you to be responsible and safe.

Before doing so, you can get their permission and define the benefits and risks of the services.

On the other hand, you can create a backup of your drivers and restore the data to the system if anything goes wrong.

In addition, scan and update selectively and only send updates about the essential or problematic drivers.

Thus, after using the software, you can analyze and report the results to the clients, addressing the issues and complaints professionally and promptly.

Wrapping Up

Thus, when it comes to your system, driver scanning can be an eminent solution to safeguard your computer from security concerns.

However, it is not just about keeping your system safe. It also protects your personal information and data stored in the device.

We have summarized the essential points for keeping computers secure and safe. However, this is not the end!

It is time to identify and fix outdated drivers using online driver software.