How To Check If Drivers Are Up To Date Windows 10 Install ((full)) Jun 2026

When you install Windows 10, the operating system automatically grabs generic drivers from Microsoft’s update servers. While these “in-box drivers” are enough to get your PC booting, they are rarely the latest or most optimized versions. Generic drivers often lack:

Windows Update automatically handles many driver updates, but some are categorized as "optional" and must be manually selected. Microsoft Support Update & Security Windows Update Check for updates

| Task | Frequency | Tool/Method | |------|-----------|--------------| | Check Device Manager for yellow warnings | After each install | Device Manager | | Run Windows Update (including optional) | Monthly | Settings → Windows Update | | Visit manufacturer’s support page for your PC model | After fresh install, then quarterly | Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc. | | Update graphics drivers | Every 2–3 months (or before new game) | GeForce Experience, Adrenalin, Intel DSA | | Update chipset and storage drivers | After major Windows updates | Motherboard vendor site | | Check network adapter drivers | If experiencing slowdowns | Device Manager + manufacturer site | | Use PowerShell to export driver list for reference | Every 6 months | PowerShell command | | Create a system restore point before major updates | Always | System Properties → System Protection | how to check if drivers are up to date windows 10 install

Many drivers are categorized as "optional" and won't install automatically. Click View optional updates

Click the arrow next to the category (e.g., Display adapters for graphics cards) to expand it. Right-click the specific device and select . Choose Search automatically for updated driver software . When you install Windows 10, the operating system

Browse the hardware categories and click the arrow to expand the component you want to check.

If the website lists a newer version number or a more recent date than what you found in Device Manager, your driver is out of date. Download the installation file directly from the site to update it. Method 4: Use Proprietary Manufacturer Software Microsoft Support Update & Security Windows Update Check

Sometimes drivers are classified as "Optional." Click on View optional updates (if available). Expand Driver updates .