How to Check and Update Drivers on Windows 11 in 2026

Why Driver Updates Matter

Drivers are the software that let Windows talk to your hardware — your GPU, Wi-Fi card, audio chip, printer, and more. Outdated drivers can cause crashes, poor performance, missing features, and security vulnerabilities. Keeping them current is one of the easiest forms of PC maintenance.

Method 1 — Windows Update (Easiest)

Windows Update handles most critical driver updates automatically. To check manually:

1. Open Settings → Windows Update
2. Click Check for updates
3. After the main updates install, click Advanced options → Optional updates
4. Expand Driver updates and install anything listed

This covers drivers for common hardware from major manufacturers. It is the safest starting point because Microsoft tests these packages.

Method 2 — Device Manager

Device Manager shows every piece of hardware in your system and flags anything with a problem.

1. Press Win + X and choose Device Manager
2. Look for any items with a yellow exclamation mark — those have driver problems
3. Right-click a device and choose Update driver
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers to let Windows try first

If Windows cannot find a driver, use Method 3 below.

Method 3 — Manufacturer Websites (Best for GPU and Wi-Fi)

For graphics cards and Wi-Fi adapters, always get drivers directly from the manufacturer — they release updates far more frequently than Windows Update.

• NVIDIA: Download GeForce Experience or go to nvidia.com/drivers
• AMD: Use AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition or visit amd.com/support
• Intel (graphics/Wi-Fi): Use the Intel Driver & Support Assistant from intel.com
• Realtek audio: Check your motherboard manufacturer's support page

How to Find Your Hardware Model

Not sure what's in your PC? Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and hit Enter. The DirectX Diagnostic Tool shows your GPU, display adapter, and system info. For Wi-Fi and other devices, open Device Manager and expand the relevant category.

Rolling Back a Bad Driver

If a new driver causes problems, you can roll back in Device Manager:

1. Right-click the device → Properties
2. Go to the Driver tab
3. Click Roll Back Driver if the option is available

If Roll Back is grayed out, use System Restore to return to a previous point before the update.

Driver Update Checklist

• Check Windows Update → Optional updates → Driver updates first
• Open Device Manager and fix any yellow-flagged devices
• Download GPU drivers directly from NVIDIA or AMD
• Use manufacturer tools (Intel DSA, GeForce Experience) for automated scanning
• Know how to roll back if something breaks