Software drivers are computer programs that allow internal and external computer hardware to communicate with the operating system. They are essential for your system to function correctly. A software driver plays a vital role in the operation of a computer.
Learn more about software drivers and their functionality in this article. Keep reading!
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What is a Software Driver?
A software driver is a program that lets the hardware communicate with the operating system. It’s a crucial part of your PC’s software structure. Without drivers, your hardware may not function properly or at all.
Different hardware devices in a computer include the central processing unit, random access memory, video card, network adapter, and hard drive. Each needs its own specific driver to function properly.
Hardware manufacturers update their drivers typically once a year. Keeping your drivers current is essential, as updates often bring new features and enhancements.
Not updating your drivers can cause software incompatibilities and even risk hardware damage.
- Enables hardware and OS communication
- Required for each hardware device
- Keep drivers up to date
What Do Software Drivers Do?
Software drivers let your computer communicate with hardware devices. They enable your system to access all features of your hardware components.
Software drivers create a vital link between hardware and the operating system, ensuring all components function correctly, no matter which version of Windows or macOS you have.
Without drivers, your computer would be just a collection of electronic parts. These software drivers transform them into useful tools for productivity and entertainment.
- Communicate with hardware
- Provide abstraction layer
- Enable productivity and entertainment
Device Drivers and Software Drivers
Most think of drivers as those enabling computers to interact with hardware like printers, scanners, and mice. However, there’s another type known as a software driver.
Software drivers are just as important as device drivers. Without them, your system may not work at all. They provide the essential communication link between hardware devices and the operating system.
They’re responsible for translating OS commands into something the hardware can understand and vice versa. This lets your computer access all the features of its hardware components.
- Device drivers: interface with hardware
- Software drivers: essential communication link
- Translate OS commands
Virtual Device Drivers
Beyond traditional drivers that let your computer talk to hardware, there are virtual device drivers. These software components let you use emulated hardware devices in your apps.
To run an old DOS-based application on your new Windows computer, use a virtual device driver to emulate an 808x processor and an MS-DOS environment. This way, the application runs properly, even though it wasn’t designed for your current system.
What Devices of PC Use Drivers?
Almost any device in your computer that uses its own independent driver relies on a software driver. This includes the central processing unit, random access memory, video card, network adapter, hard drive, and even the keyboard and mouse.
Software drivers ensure compatibility with various operating system versions. Regardless of your OS version, your hardware drivers will function correctly.
- Various Devices: CPU, RAM, video card, etc.
- Compatibility with OS versions
- Ensures hardware functionality
Updating the Driver: Why It is Important?
Keep your device and software drivers updated for new features and improvements. Doing so ensures compatibility with other applications and protects your computer from hardware damage.
Driver updates enhance the user interface, add support for new hardware, and improve security. Updating your driver ensures the best possible experience with your devices.
How are Drivers Installed?
Hardware manufacturers often provide drivers via software updates. You can download these from their websites or through Windows Update.
Many software applications include a built-in updater that automatically checks for and installs driver updates. This keeps your drivers up-to-date without any extra effort.
How do I know what Drivers I need?
If you’re unsure which drivers you need, use a program like Driver Detective to scan your system and identify them. While Driver Detective is paid, there are several free driver scanning programs online.
After downloading the drivers, install them by running the executable file. You might need to restart your computer for the changes to apply.