How to Program Windows Device Drivers

Usually, Windows device drivers are already programmed to work with your computer when the device is installed. But there are a few reasons why a Windows-compatible device driver would not be programmed correctly. Sometimes a computer can fail to recognize a device though it had done so before. The device's driver may need to be updated in order to get working again. And since USB and wireless devices are installed differently, other steps may apply that were not carried out. Avoid the guesswork by applying a few concise and straightforward steps.

• 1

  Check the Windows Compatibility Center (see Resources) to ensure that your device brand is on the list. Some devices are not compatible with the Windows operating system.

• 2

  Connect the device that you want to program to a power source if it has a cord attached.

• 3

  Start your computer and then attach the USB device to it.

• 4

  Connect your computer to the Internet if it is not already connected and then turn on your device. If your computer recognizes the device, the Device Stage screen will appear and you will be able to program additional settings there. If you are installing and programming a wireless network device, continue.

• 5

  Click the "Start" button and then click "Control Panel."

• 6

  Click "Add a Device" under "Hardware and Sound" and then follow the wizard to install the device. If the device does not install and program properly, continue.

• 7

  Click the "Start" button and then click "Control Panel." Type "Troubleshooter" in the search box, and then click "Troubleshooting."

• 8

  Click "Configure a device" under "Hardware and Sound." Type in your administrator password or provide confirmation, if prompted. If your device does not configure, continue.

• 9

  Run the Microsoft Fix It hardware and devices troubleshooter (see Resources).