The Role of Computer Drivers
Computer Drivers – What are they?
In order to understand what computer drivers are, let’s first look at a basic computer system. At their most basic, computers are made up of hardware, peripheral devices, and software. Hardware includes the motherboard, Central Processing Unit, hard disk, network cards and so on. Peripheral devices include devices that connect to the computer such as printers, scanners, keyboards, and so on. Software includes the operating system, applications, and system software that acts as an interface between devices and the operating system. The computer’s drivers tell the operating system about the hardware and peripheral devices attached to the computer as well as provide a way for the operating system to interact with these devices. Without the driver software, the computer wouldn’t know what has been connected to it let alone how to use it.
The Language of Computer Drivers
Like all software, device drivers are written in computer code. Because computers are available in dozens of operating systems, device drivers must be written in a language that the computer can understand. This means that a driver written for Windows 7 is different than a driver written for Windows XP – even if the device works on either operating system. Because the software is operating system specific, it’s crucial that you install the correct version of the driver for your computer’s operating system. Otherwise, the computer will not understand the information contained within the software – and thus won’t be able to interact with the device.
The Evolution of Computer Drivers
When a manufacturer releases a new type of device, it also releases the device’s corresponding drivers. However, the manufacturer rarely stops working on perfecting the device. As bugs are discovered, fixes are issued via updated computer drivers. In addition to repairing known hardware problems with updates, manufacturers add new functions and support for new technologies.
The Value of Keeping Computer Drivers Current
Because manufacturers are constantly tweaking the software that drives their devices, it’s smart for end users to periodically check to see if their hardware has been updated, and if so, to download and install those updates. Not only does this allow you to fix known problems, it also allows you to get the any new features added to your device. It also serves as a preventative measure. For example, if the manufacturer has solved a known problem that doesn’t currently affect your computer system, applying that fix will prevent that problem from ever affecting your computer in the future. How to Update Computer Drivers There are many ways to update your computer’s drivers: You can search each manufacturer’s website for specific driver software; you can use Windows Update to keep your plug-and-play hardware current; and you can use the Device Manager to manually update each device. However, with dozens of pieces of hardware on your system, it’s time-consuming to update each piece individually. Software is available that automatically inventories your computer’s configuration and keeps it updated with the latest device drivers. If you want an automated solution, consider investing in one of these utilities.
About the Author
DriversUpdate.org features advice, tools, reviews, and utilities that make keeping your computer drivers current a snap.
Computer Dictionary – What is a Driver?
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