How to Find Drivers for an IBM ThinkPad

One of the joys of owning an IBM ThinkPad computer is the support that IBM/Lenovo gives to their customers. Even if your ThinkPad is fifteen years old, it is possible to get every driver your laptop will need. The IBM/Lenovo website makes it simple to find the drivers you need and allows you to download them at no cost.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• ThinkPad Model Number
• ThinkPad Serial Number
• Internet access

1. Turn your ThinkPad over and write down the seven digit model number that is on the bottom of the ThinkPad. Next to that, you should be able to find the serial number of your machine also.

2. Get online and surf to the IBM website. Once you click the tab that designates the country you are in, click on support and downloads from the top menu.

3. Type in your model number in the space provided and click search.

4. Once the search returns are displayed, click on the driver’s text link.

5. Begin at the top of the list and download the drivers required for the operating system you wish to run.

Tips & Warnings

• To learn more about your particular ThinkPad, check out the forums both at Lenovo.com and at Thinkpads.com.
• Parts for older ThinkPad’s are often available on eBay.
• Since ThinkPad’s are designated business class laptops, they are built tougher and can take more abuse than those designed for the home market.
• Often a used ThinkPad can be purchased with warranty still remaining on the machine. The IBM warranty covers the machine, no matter who owns it at the time of repair.
• Burn a copy of the driver downloads just in case they are needed for the future.

Resources

• IBM/Lenovo Support and Downloads