- 1). Visit the Microsoft Update website (see Resources). Click on "Custom," then "Hardware, Optional." The Update website will scan your computer for missing drivers, and may ask you to download and install some software to speed up the process.
- 2). Enable Automatic Updates on your computer. Click on "Start," then click "Control Panel" and double-click on "Security Center." Click on "Automatic Updates." In the dialog box, click on "Automatic (recommended)" and then click "OK." This gives Windows permission to search for updated drivers and other fixes on a regular basis, and install them automatically.
- 3). Visit the hardware manufacturer's website. Manufacturers often provide updated drivers or a choice of drivers for different configurations, and you can download these directly from their websites. Follow the website instructions to download the drivers and then restart your computer. Windows will automatically search for the drivers on your system and install them.
- 4). Install a Windows 2000 driver from the manufacturer's website if you can't find a driver for XP. This may mean your hardware has limited functionality, but is a valid workaround if a manufacturer hasn't provided updated drivers for XP.
- 5). Go to the Microsoft XP discussion groups (see Resources) to get help finding your drivers. Search for previously answered questions or ask a new one. Be aware that although these groups are sponsored by Microsoft and are frequented by experts, less-knowledgeable users may also offer advice.
- 6). Visit specialist third-party websites. Popular hardware devices may have community forums dedicated to them, and the administrators of these forums can be very knowledgeable. Other sites focus on drivers for multiple manufacturers, and you can often find drivers for older hardware in their archives.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -