How to install drivers in Windows

The instructions in the article explain how to install the sound driver, but they can be used to install any drivers for any devices.

Drivers are software that allows Windows to communicate with your hardware. If your camera, microphone, or speakers aren't working, updating or reinstalling drivers often fixes the issue.

Automatic update

Step 1: Open Device Manager

See how to open Device Manager, or use one of these methods:

  • Right-click Start → Device Manager
  • Search for "Device Manager" in Windows search
  • Press Win + X, then M

Step 2: Find your device

Expand the relevant category (e.g., Sound, video and game controllers for audio drivers).

Step 3: Update the driver

Right-click on your device and select Update driver.

Select Search automatically for drivers and wait for Windows to find and install the latest driver.

If you see "The best drivers for your device are already installed", your driver is up to date and the issue may be elsewhere.

Download from manufacturer

Compatibility issues

Test your devices

After installing drivers, test your devices to make sure they work: