DeviceHowTo
Windows 11⏱ 8 min

How to Update Device Drivers on Windows 11

Install latest hardware drivers to fix peripheral, display, and audio issues.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

Keeping drivers up to date on Windows is more nuanced than OS updates because drivers come from three separate sources: Windows Update (which provides validated but not always latest versions), Device Manager's automatic search (which queries Microsoft's driver catalogue), and the manufacturer's own website (which often has more recent versions than either). Display, audio, and Wi-Fi drivers are the most impactful to keep current for performance and compatibility, while chipset drivers from Intel or AMD underpin everything else and benefit from direct manufacturer downloads. Rolling back a driver through Device Manager > Properties > Driver > Roll Back Driver is always available if a new driver introduces issues.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Right-click the Start button and open Device Manager.
  2. 2Expand the category for the affected hardware (Display adapters, Sound, Bluetooth, Network adapters, etc.). Right-click the device and select Update driver.
  3. 3Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. If Windows finds one, install it and restart when prompted.

Still Not Working?

Try these if the steps above didn't help.

Verify the Fix

Confirm everything is fully working before closing this guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Windows 11 have a built-in way to update device drivers?
Yes. Windows 11 includes a native option to update device drivers without installing third-party software. Follow the Quick Steps above for the exact location in the settings menu.
How long does it take to update device drivers on Windows 11?
Most users complete this in about 8 min. Complex cases that require troubleshooting or a restart may take a few extra minutes.
Is it safe to update device drivers on Windows 11?
Yes — this is a standard Windows 11 operation. Follow the steps exactly as written, particularly any warnings shown in red or amber banners at the top of this guide.
What should I do if update device drivers doesn't work on Windows 11?
Follow the Still Not Working section above for targeted fallback steps. As a final resort, install any pending OS updates and restart the device before trying again — most software issues resolve after an update.

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