A driver is a set of files that helps hardware components to communicate with the computer’s OS. Keeping the device drivers updated is crucial for many reasons. It not only ensure optimal performance but also prevent network-related issues, video issue, sound playback, recording issue, and more.
Dell advises updating drivers, especially when you have reset your computer to factory default settings or have reinstalled the operating system. The following article is a standalone guide on downloading and installing Dell drivers. Besides, we have also covered the use of Dell drivers, so you know why they are essential and must be kept updated.
What is the use of Dell Drivers?
The primary function of the Dell drivers is to act as digital translators for your Dell-based PC and its peripherals to communicate. When you don’t have the necessary drivers installed, or they are outdated or broken, the devices you will connect to your computer may not work properly. It may also cause applications on your PC to malfunction.
Keeping drivers updated helps optimizes computer performance, patch security risks, and expand compatibility.
Every computer has multiple drivers, mainly divided into two types: device drivers and software drivers. All hardware components require a driver, be it your internal computer components, such as a video card or external devices such as keyboards or printers.
The bottom line is: having the latest dell drivers ensures smooth communication and functioning of hardware components with the computer OS and peripherals.
How to Download and Install Dell Drivers
Although you should always keep your device drivers updated, it becomes unavoidable when you are facing issues for not having the required drivers installed. Dell recommends one must update the drivers after reinstalling the OS and resetting the computer to factory default settings.
Using the Dell support website, you can scan your PC for the necessary drivers and install them. You don’t have to worry about finding the latest version or the appropriate installation sequence when downloading drivers from the manufacturer’s official website.
NOTE: Avoid downloading drivers from third-party or unknown sources. They may not work as intended or, in some cases, infect the computer with viruses, trojans, or other malicious software. Dell drivers are available for Dell products. For non-Dell devices, you can use the manufacturer’s website.
How to update Dell Drivers
To download the latest Dell drivers, you can do it manually or using SupportAssist. Either method will do the job.
Method 1: Manually
In order to update drivers manually, you will be required to have the following:
- Service Tag of your Dell PC
- Administrator permission to install drivers and apps
- Working internet connection
- Some systems might require you to connect the AC adapter to the computer and the dock.
Once you have all the prerequisites in place, continue with the steps given below:
- First of all, open a web browser on your computer, preferably Google Chrome.
- Open www.dell.com/support/drivers
- To identify the product, enter your Dell Service Tag and hit Search. If you don’t have it, you can also use your Dell EMC Product ID or Model Number.
- Next, click on Check for Updates and wait while Dell scans your computer and comes up with the list of the driver’s updates you should install.
- Once the process is complete, click on the Show drivers drop-down button to review the list.
- If it’s all good, hit the Download and Install button to continue.
- Upon completion of the installation process, restart your PC.
If you want to download a particular driver for your Dell computer, click on Find drivers. Enter a related keyword, and choose your operating system. Select the driver and click on Download.
You will be asked to confirm your action, so click Yes and follow the onscreen instructions. Once you have successfully updated the driver, restart your system, and you are good to go.
Method 2: via SupportAssist
SupportAssist offers a hassle-free way to download and install Dell drivers in no time. Here’s how to do:
- Go to www.dell.com/support/drivers
- Click on Download & Install SupportAssist
- Once the SupportAssistlauncher.exe file is downloaded, run it.
- Next, follow the onscreen instructions to install the application.
- Launch the app and set up your profile.
- At the homepage, locate the “Get Drivers & Downloads” option and click on Run Now.
- SupportAssist will automatically show all available driver updates for your Dell computer.
- To install them, all you have to do is, hit the Install button at the top-right corner of the screen.
Upon successfully installing the drivers, simply restart your computer to apply the changes.
NOTE: In some cases, although rare, you may find your device not working as intended after updating the drivers. Such instances take place when there is an issue with the update itself, or another driver is in conflict with the recently updated driver. This issue can be fixed by rolling back the driver to the previous version.
FAQs
Q. What is a driver?
A driver is an integral software component developed for a specific operating system, such as Windows 11, Windows 10 and so on. Drivers enable your operating system to establish communication with hardware components and peripherals such as a printer, graphics card, sound card, etc.
Q. Should I install Dell drivers?
Dell drivers must be installed after factory reset or reinstallation of the OS. If you want your computer to deliver optimal performance, keep your drivers updated.
Q. Why do I have to update drivers?
Updating drivers helps the device to stay in sync with operating system updates, ensures compatibility with new software and gears, and provides the latest security patches and functionality. Having all the necessary drivers installed makes sure the hardware devices work correctly.
Q. Where do I find drivers for my Dell printer and other Dell devices?
To look for and download drivers for your Dell printer and other Dell devices, go to www.dell.com/support/drivers and enter the product Service Tag. Some Dell-manufactured devices, such as a keyboard or mice, do not come with a Service Tag, so you can click on “Browse all products.” And select the product from the given catalogue of the items. You can also search for specific drivers using the keyword search option category filter on the Dell Drivers & Downloads website.
Q. What is SupportAssist?
SupportAssist is a smart technology designed and developed to avoid troubleshooting and disruptions using automated, proactive and predictive support. SupportAssist comes preinstalled on Windows-based Dell computers, but if you can’t find it on your computer, download and install the SupportAssist desktop app by clicking here.
Q. What are the different driver categories on Dell Drivers & Downloads website?
Available driver categories vary based on different Dell products. Some generic categories on the Dell Drivers & Downloads website include Applications, Audio, BIOS, Chipset, Modem/Communications, Mouse, Keyboard & Input Devices, Network, Operating System, Removable storage, Security, Serial ATA, System Utilities, and Video.
Final Words
So that is pretty much all for this detailed article on Dell drivers. We hope, by now, you have a firm understanding of drivers and their importance. Keeping device drivers updated greatly benefits the system and prevents related issues to occur.
