How to Update Network Drivers

In today’s digital age, a fast and reliable internet connection is essential for both work and leisure. But sometimes, despite having a strong internet service, your network connection may slow down or face interruptions. One common reason for this is outdated network drivers. Knowing how to update network drivers is crucial for maintaining a smooth and stable connection. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to update network drivers, why it’s essential, and various methods to do so effectively.

Why Updating Network Drivers is Important

Before we dive into how to update network drivers, it’s essential to understand why keeping them up-to-date is so crucial. Network drivers act as a bridge between your computer’s hardware and its operating system, ensuring that your network card (whether wired or wireless) communicates efficiently with your OS. Outdated drivers can lead to:

• Slow internet speeds
• Dropped connections
• Inability to connect to networks
• Incompatibility with new software or operating system updates

In short, knowing how to update network drivers can help avoid these issues and ensure your internet connection runs smoothly.

How to Update Network Drivers Manually Through Device Manager

One of the most common methods for updating network drivers is through Device Manager in Windows. Here’s how to update network drivers using this built-in tool:

Step 1: Open Device Manager

1. Press the Windows + X keys on your keyboard and select “Device Manager” from the menu.
2. Alternatively, you can type “Device Manager” in the Windows search bar and click on the corresponding result.

Step 2: Locate Network Adapters

In the Device Manager window, scroll down to find the “Network adapters” section. Click on the arrow next to it to expand the list of network devices connected to your computer.

Step 3: Select Your Network Adapter

Right-click on the network adapter you wish to update. This could be either a wireless adapter (Wi-Fi) or a wired Ethernet adapter. From the context menu, choose “Update driver.”

Step 4: Search for Updated Drivers

After selecting “Update driver,” you will see two options:

• Search automatically for updated driver software: This option lets Windows search for the latest driver software online.
• Browse my computer for driver software: If you have already downloaded the driver manually, you can select this option and navigate to the file.

Select the first option to let Windows automatically find and install the updated driver.

Step 5: Complete the Update

Windows will now search for the latest driver and install it if available. Once the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.

That’s how to update network drivers manually using Device Manager.

How to Update Network Drivers Automatically

While manually updating drivers through Device Manager is straightforward, some users prefer an automated approach. Here’s how to update network drivers automatically using driver update software.

Step 1: Download Driver Update Software

There are several programs available that can scan your system for outdated drivers and update them automatically. Some popular choices include:

• Driver Booster
• DriverPack Solution
• Snappy Driver Installer

Download and install the driver update software of your choice.

Step 2: Run a Scan for Outdated Drivers

Open the driver update software and run a system scan. The program will detect any outdated drivers, including network drivers.

Step 3: Update Your Network Drivers

Once the scan is complete, the software will display a list of drivers that need updating. Find the network drivers in the list and select them for an update. The program will then download and install the latest drivers for you.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

After the drivers have been updated, restart your computer to ensure that the new drivers are properly installed and functioning.

This method of how to update network drivers is ideal for those who want a hassle-free solution.

How to Update Network Drivers Manually from the Manufacturer’s Website

Another reliable method of updating network drivers is to download the latest driver version directly from the manufacturer’s website. This approach is useful if you want to ensure you’re getting the most recent driver update, especially if Device Manager can’t find one. Here’s how to update network drivers from the manufacturer’s website:

Step 1: Identify Your Network Adapter

First, you need to know the model of your network adapter. You can find this information in Device Manager:

1. Open Device Manager as described earlier.
2. Expand the “Network adapters” section and right-click on your network adapter.
3. Select “Properties” and then click on the “Details” tab.
4. Under the “Property” dropdown menu, select “Hardware Ids” to view the model and manufacturer of your network adapter.

Step 2: Visit the Manufacturer’s Website

Once you have the model number, visit the manufacturer’s website (e.g., Intel, Realtek, or Broadcom). Navigate to their “Support” or “Downloads” section and search for your network adapter model.

Step 3: Download the Latest Driver

Find the latest driver version for your network adapter and download it to your computer. Make sure to download the driver version compatible with your operating system.

Step 4: Install the Driver

Once the driver file is downloaded, open the file and follow the on-screen instructions to install it. After installation, restart your computer to complete the update.

That’s how to update network drivers manually by visiting the manufacturer’s website.

How to Update Network Drivers on macOS

If you’re a Mac user, you may not have to worry about updating network drivers as often, since macOS generally handles driver updates automatically with system updates. However, if you ever encounter network issues, you may want to update your drivers manually. Here’s how to update network drivers on a Mac:

Step 1: Check for macOS Updates

The easiest way to ensure your network drivers are up-to-date on a Mac is by keeping your macOS updated. To do this:

1. Click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”
2. Click on “Software Update” to check for any available updates.
3. If an update is available, click “Update Now.”

macOS updates typically include the latest drivers for your network card.

Step 2: Download Drivers from the Manufacturer

If you’re still facing network issues after updating macOS, you can download network drivers directly from the hardware manufacturer’s website. Follow the steps described earlier for identifying your network card model and visiting the manufacturer’s website.

Step 3: Install the Drivers

Once the new driver is downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Restart your Mac after installation to ensure the new drivers are active.

This is how to update network drivers on macOS effectively.

How to Troubleshoot Network Driver Issues

Even after learning how to update network drivers, you may still encounter problems with your network connection. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:

1. Roll Back Drivers

Sometimes, a newly updated driver can cause more harm than good. If you notice issues after updating your network drivers, you can roll back to a previous version:

1. Open Device Manager.
2. Right-click on your network adapter and select “Properties.”
3. Go to the “Driver” tab and click “Roll Back Driver.”

2. Reinstall Drivers

If rolling back the driver doesn’t work, you can try reinstalling the driver. Uninstall the current driver through Device Manager and restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall the network driver upon reboot.

3. Use Network Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in network troubleshooter that can diagnose and fix network issues. To access it:

1. Go to “Settings” > “Network & Internet” > “Status.”
2. Click “Network Troubleshooter” and follow the prompts.

These troubleshooting tips should help resolve any lingering issues after you’ve learned how to update network drivers.

Conclusion

Knowing how to update network drivers is essential for maintaining a stable and fast internet connection. Whether you choose to update drivers manually through Device Manager, automatically with driver update software, or by downloading them from the manufacturer’s website, keeping your drivers up-to-date can prevent many network-related issues. Regularly updating your drivers will ensure that your computer communicates efficiently with your network, providing a seamless internet experience.

By following this guide on how to update network drivers, you can ensure your network connection remains fast and reliable for both personal and professional use.