Device Driver Problems
Many computer users are blissfully unaware of the existence of device drivers - at least until something goes wrong. While most of the time these tiny little files work as they are intended - relaying information and instructions between the computer’s operating system and the connected hardware, occasionally problems do arise. These problems can be due to a number of causes, including having the wrong device driver installed, having a corrupted device driver or having a device driver that is outdated.
No matter what the cause it is important for computer users to be able to recognize some of the possible signs and symptoms of device driver problems. If your computer has been experiencing any of these symptoms it may be time to start looking for updated device drivers. In many cases the symptoms themselves will tell you which device is misbehaving, making it easier to find the right device driver to resolve the issue.
Error Messages
While the error messages provided by Windows can be vague to say the least, they may be able to give you some clues as to which device is causing the problem. If the error messages appear when you attach or power on a specific piece of hardware the device driver associated with that hardware may be corrupt or outdated.
Frequent Crashes
The causes of computer crashes can be notoriously difficult to pin down, but in some cases outdated, missing or corrupt device drivers can cause these problems. Device drivers are more likely to be the culprit when the crashes are consistent - always occurring when a particular piece of hardware is in use for instance.
Poor Audio Quality
If your speakers are producing more noise than music your audio card drivers may be to blame. . Frequent pops, crackles and other extraneous noises can be symptoms of corrupt or outdated audio drivers. If you notice these problems head over to the audio card manufacturer’s website to see if updated drivers are available.
Flashes and Poor Color Quality
Flashing, dimming and poor color quality can be symptoms of missing, corrupt or outdated video drivers. If you notice any of these symptoms it is a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for updated drivers. If the driver for the video card has failed completely you may even see your computer’s display revert to that ugly 16 color state.
Sudden Problems After New Hardware is Installed
If you start to see problems like crashing and poor performance right after a piece of new hardware has been installed device drivers are most likely to blame. In some cases the problem may be that the device driver is corrupt, while in other cases the driver may be conflicting with existing hardware or software. In other cases the device driver may already be outdated, even if the hardware has just been installed. If you start to see problems following the installation of new hardware it is important to head over to the manufacturer’s website. In some cases the source of the problem will already have been identified and corrected with the release of a brand new device driver. Downloading the updated driver may solve the problem and allow the new hardware to function as intended.
Just another bad driver
If you notice any of these signs and symptoms a bad device driver could very well be the culprit. Keeping your drivers up to date can help fend off these problems before they start, so it is important to review those drivers periodically in order to keep your system operating smoothly and efficiently.
We recommend 2 different tools to ensure your drivers are -up-to-date Drivercure and DriverDetective. We give the edge to Drivercure since that tool ensures your software is kep updated as well as of course your system drivers.
