Windows 11 · Windows

Check a Windows Device Driver Error Before Updating

Source-checked 5 August 2026About 10 minutes

Answer

When Windows reports a driver-install problem, identify the affected device and its Device Manager error code first. The safe next step depends on that code and the hardware maker, not on a generic driver download.

Open Device Manager

Right-click Start and select Device Manager.

Find the affected device

Expand the device category with a warning icon or the hardware named in the error.

Open Properties

Right-click that device and choose Properties.

Record Device status

Copy the exact Device status wording and any error code before taking action.

Check Windows Update

Install available Windows updates, which Microsoft recommends for most hardware-driver updates.

Use automatic driver search

In the device’s Driver tab, choose Update Driver, then Search automatically for updated driver software.

Use the hardware maker only

If Windows cannot provide a driver, use the computer or device maker’s official support page with the exact model and code, or contact that maker.

If it does not work

If Device Manager shows no code, do not force a generic driver reinstall. Keep the exact error text for the device maker.
Avoid driver-download sites that are not the hardware maker. Microsoft specifically advises using official manufacturer sources when Windows Update cannot help.
If the device is a printer, graphics card, or network adapter, record its model and connection type as well as the code. Those details determine the manufacturer’s supported driver.

Sources and verification

Checked against official documentation on 5 August 2026. Scope: Windows.

Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.