How to Back Up Drivers

Drivers are pieces of software that make your computer, its programs and other external components, such as keyboards and speakers, function. If you format your hard drive and reinstall your computer's operating system, all the drivers will be deleted, and your computer may not function properly. Your best option is to back up all the drivers so you can easily reinstall them.

Instructions

1. Download a driver backup utility. DriverMax is an excellent option. It's free and easy to use, it stores your backups online, it works for all operating systems, and it's multifunctional, serving as backup and updating software.

2. Install your backup software. Follow the instructions in the installation wizard and agree to any license agreements. Register the download and set up an account.

3. Run the backup software and create a zip file that contains all the drivers you wish to back up.

4. Once the zip file is created, you can burn it to a disk, save it to a removable storage device or external hard drive, or put it in a DriverMax account.

5. Close all open windows and reinstall your operating system. Retrieve the drivers you backed up and reinstall them with the Device Manager. The missing drivers will be marked with yellow exclamation points.

Resources

• DriverMax Download Page
• How Do I Back Up My Drivers?