How to Remove a Driver Update From a Computer
Every device on your computer, including input devices, video cards or USB peripherals, has a device driver that gives the device instructions on how to interact with your computer. Manufacturers commonly release new drivers for devices to push features, stability or updates to remain current. In some cases, updated drivers can cause problems with your device or interact in an unforeseen manner with a program installed on your computer. According to Microsoft.com, you might need to restore a device driver to a previous version when you encounter problems.
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Instructions
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Click the "Start" button and select "Run." In Windows Vista or 7, you can type commands directly into the search bar.
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Type "devmgmt.msc" and press "Enter." This opens the Device Manager screen so you can manage drivers installed for your devices.
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Select the device for which you would like to remove the driver update. Most devices are in the file tree of the Device Manager under the type of device. For example, if you need to remove the driver for your video card, click the arrow next to "Display drivers" and double-click the name of your device.
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Select the "Driver" tab in the "Properties" screen. Select the "Roll Back Driver" option and allow Windows to automatically uninstall the current driver and reinstall the copy of the older driver. If the "Roll Back Driver" option is not available, more steps are necessary.
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If the "Roll Back Driver" option is unavailable, click "Uninstall" to remove the driver from your computer. In the warning screen, select "Delete the driver for this device" and click "OK" to remove the driver. Remember to reinstall the last known functioning driver for your device if you use this option.
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Tips & Warnings
Always attempt to use the "Roll Back Driver" option first. If you delete the driver without installing a replacement, your device could cease to function until you install a working driver.
