Driver Articles

• >> Why Drivers Are Important
• >> How To Install Drivers
• >> Choosing Drivers for Your Printer
• >> Finding Drivers for Windows XP
• >> Function of Printer Drivers
• >> How To Download Drivers From A Third Party
• >> How To Find Drivers For Windows Vista
• >> How to Search for Network Drivers
• >> Installing Drivers In Windows 2000
• >> Installing Drivers With Windows Applications
• >> Installing Your Video Card Driver
• >> Making the Right Choice is Essential for Your Hardware to Run Efficiently
• >> Purpose of Network Drivers
• >> Replacing Hardware Requires New Device Drivers
• >> The Importance of Choosing Compatible Device Drivers
• >> Updating Audio and Video Drivers
• >> What Does a Device Driver Do
• >> What Happens If Your Device Drivers Become Corrupt or Obsolete
• >> When And How To Install Driver Updates
• >> Where To Find Webcam Drivers

Finding Drivers for Windows XP

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As a Windows XP user, you really do have the advantage. The computing days of yesteryear definitely made updating and installing device drivers far harder than the process is today. In fact, this operating system is known as one of the best in terms of its ability to manage device drivers properly. Even if you do need to update or change the device driver from time to time, the process is not difficult to do.

On the other hand, you may be having some problems and that is making you think that any type of difficulty that was once in place is still a problem today. In most situations, the biggest problem people run into is with hardware compatibility. If you are having hardware compatibility issues with your Windows XP, then it is likely that the problem stems from one of two possibilities. One of the most common problems is that you have an older device that the manufacturer has not updated the driver for to work with Windows XP. If you do have a new device, it may be that Windows XP does not have any added drivers to support it, yet.

To Find Drivers

If you need to find device drivers that are not otherwise updated on your computer, you can do so. Before you do this, do take the time to look through the Windows Catalog to determine if the hardware you have has a Windows XP update to it. These items should be marked "Designed for Microsoft Windows XP" logo on them. You will also find other resources in the Windows Catalog to provide you with the information and the device drivers you need.

However, if you do need to find a driver for your Windows XP system, the first task you have is to find suitable drivers. Remember that not all are available, nor will they work, for all of your systems. Follow these tips:

• If the device has a CD or floppy disk with it, this is the best place to find the device driver you need. Insert the disk and allow the process to follow. Generally, you will be prompted and given on screen directions.
• For those with a new device, and no CD, visit the manufacturer's website. The website will likely contain a variety of products. Locate the product through the model number or other identification provided. Ensure that the device driver is specific for Windows XP.
• You may be able to find the device driver you need in the Windows Update Catalog. This service will automatically check to ensure your system has the latest updates for the drivers you need.

Windows XP has made it incredibly simple to update and manage most device drivers. If you do find that you have a problem, take the time to follow the steps mentioned here to update or to install your driver. In some situations, using a third party provider of device drivers is also necessary and a good option for you to select.