How to Move Drivers From Windows XP

Most computer components require driver software

Most of the hardware in a Windows XP computer requires driver software to run correctly. When porting hardware to a new computer, the drivers will need to be moved as well in order for the system to function. While most hardware drivers are available from their manufacturer's website as a free download, some drivers may be discontinued, lost or otherwise unavailable. Using driver backup software ensures that a new system gets the drivers it needs, and also provides an easy way to back up multiple drivers in case of a serious computer malfunction.

Instructions

1. Download driver backup software. Driver Backup, Driver Magician and Chily Driver Backup are all available for free download or have a trial version for free use. Download the installation file and save it to your hard drive.

2. Double click on the downloaded file to start the installation process. Depending on your system's settings, this may require a user account with administrative privileges. Follow the instructions and wait for the installation to finish. Some driver backup software opens without an installation.

3. Open the software and allow the program to scan your computer for drivers. Select the driver or drivers you wish to move and click "Backup" or "Save."

4. Select a destination location on your hard drive. If you wish to move the drivers on a CD or other portable media, save the files to your hard drive, and then transfer them to the other media. Export the files.

5. Transfer the files to the new or reformatted computer's hard drive.

6. Right click on the second computer's "My Computer" icon and choose "Properties." In the Hardware tab, click "Device Manager."

7. Choose the type of device driver you wish to move and double click on the specific existing or default Windows driver. In the Driver tab, click "Update Driver."

8. In the Hardware Update Wizard, select "No, not this time," and then "Install from a list or specific location."

9. Choose the "Don't Search" option, and click "Have Disk." Click "Browse" and navigate to the driver's backed up configuration file on your hard drive. Wait for the installation to finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Drivers moved from a Windows XP system may only function correctly on another XP computer. Most drivers have different configurations for each version of Windows.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to manage devices in Windows XP

Resources

• Cnet Downloads: Driver Backup
• Driver Magician: Home
• Chily Softec: Home