What Are Windows Drivers?

Drivers are also known as programs that translate and simplify communications between hardware and software. The high-level programming used in coding drivers is also specific to the device.

Windows drivers are applications developed specifically for the Windows operating system. Default drivers usually come bundled with the Windows installer and will be copied over to the computer after the installation. In most cases, these drivers may be utilized to use the installed hardware, but may not be enough to be enable all of its functions and features.

Windows drivers are used to ensure that the integral hardware components are usable. This will allow the computer users to navigate the system to make the necessary changes to complete the installation process. Hardware that is compatible with default Windows drivers include:

• Monitor or Display Adapters
• Keyboard and Mouse
• Network Adapters
• Storage Devices (SCSI, SATA)
• Universal Serial Bus (USB)
• DVD/CD-ROM drives

Other hardware devices require manufacturer-specific drivers before it can be used in the computer. Such devices include:

• Imaging Devices (scanners, digital cameras, Webcams, etc.)
• Video Cards
• Sound Cards
• Bluetooth Devices
• Modems
• Printers
• Wireless Network Adapters
• Some External storage devices
• Some USB devices (PSP, Mobile Phones, PDAs, etc.)

Also, drivers are OS specific. This means a driver coded specifically for a version of the Windows operating system might not work properly with other versions. A good example of this is between Windows 98, Windows XP, and Windows Vista.

The drivers of Windows 9x series might be compatible with hardware running under Windows XP, but not vice versa. Windows Vista requires specially coded drivers for devices running under it. There were some reported instances of devices used for Windows Vista encountering hardware troubles when used with other operating systems. This is quite common with Vista-made laptops installed with Windows XP operating systems.

Microsoft offers an extensive Windows-based repertoire of device drivers available for download from the Web. These Windows drivers are sorted according to the version of the operating system used, manufacturer of the device, compatible version with the computer, and so on.

Uniblue is a provider of leading system utilities designed to deliver superior stability, performance and security to pc users at home and business sector. If you want to check whether your device drivers are up-to-date, feel free to try out Driver Scanner. This free scan will give you a detailed list of your current drivers and what needs to be updated.

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