How to Fix Windows XP Drivers
Microsoft's Windows XP has been replaced with Vista, but it can still be found on many users' computers who prefer its simpler interface and lower memory requirements. The process of installing and fixing drivers on Windows XP is usually pretty simple. However, hiccups often occur, and more troubleshooting and steps are necessary to get everything working normally.
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Instructions
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1
Run Windows Update. If Windows is missing critical drivers, visit update.microsoft.com and run Windows Update. You may be asked to install additional software and other critical updates, like security patches. It's a good idea to install these drivers to plug security holes that are commonly exploited by hackers and malware.
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2
Download updated versions of the drivers. Visit the vendor's website and get the latest version of the driver. Sometimes these are bundled with installers that will install the driver for you. In this case, simply run the executable and restart (if necessary) when prompted. If not, save the files (unzip them if necessary) and go to Step 3.
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3
Reinstall the troubled drivers with updated versions through Device Manager. Right click on "My Computer" and select "Properties." Click on the "Hardware" tab and choose "Device Manager." Choose the troubled hardware from the list, right click and select "Update Driver." This opens the Hardware Update Wizard, which gives you multiple options. You can search Windows Update or install the driver from a specific location. If you previously saved the driver, instruct the wizard to install the driver from a specific location and point it to the desired directory. You may have to restart your computer once the driver is successfully installed. If this process does not work, move to Step 4.
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Uninstall the driver by selecting "Uninstall" when right clicking on it in the Device Manager. This will usually require a computer reboot. Upon rebooting, Windows may attempt to install the driver and ask you for the location. As before, point it to the directory where you saved your downloaded drivers. If Windows doesn't ask you to install the driver automatically, open Device Manager and right click on the "unknown hardware" to install the driver from a specific location.
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Tips & Warnings
Lather, rinse, repeat. If the above steps don't work, keep trying. Uninstall and reinstall the driver until Windows recognizes it. It may require a few reboots before the driver is recognized.
