Finding driver information

If you have attached a new piece of hardware and find that it isn't functioning properly, or that your computer does not recognize it, making sure you have the right driver is a good place to start solving your problem. A driver is a small piece of software that smoothes the way for your hardware to work with your computer.

Check to see if your new hardware came with software—usually on a floppy disk, or perhaps a CD. Make sure you follow the directions to install the software properly.

If no software came with your hardware, you may need to take action to find the right driver. Drivers are usually free and often readily available. Here's how to find driver information.

• Check the Web site of the manufacturer of your new hardware. Look for information about drivers, or about the product you bought. Watch carefully for links to "drivers" and keep specific information about your new product, such as model numbers, handy while you look. (See sidebar for Web sites of popular manufacturers.)
• The Windows Update site may also have drivers you need. Click Product Updates in the left-hand column, then click Device Drivers.
  
  Note   The Windows Update site scans your system to see what you have installed. It may ask you to download software onto your computer to facilitate this process. The safety and privacy of your system information is protected during this scan. None of this information is sent to Microsoft or over the Internet.
• If you still haven't found the driver you need, you may need to call or write the manufacturer for information about whether a missing driver is your problem, and how you can get one.
• Check the Web site of the manufacturer of your computer. Sometimes the appropriate driver might be available there. If you don't see anything on the Web site, try calling or writing, particularly if your machine is still under warranty.