Windows 11 · Windows
Check a Windows Device Driver Error Before Updating
Source-checked About 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.
Video walkthrough
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 . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.