How to Troubleshoot Driver Problems

Counting to be the most annoying problem the common users have to face with their computers are driver problems. We look at this as a mismatch of all the hardware installed and function as one, making up your computer.

Read here instead for detailed information and concept how device drivers work.

First thing you need to be sure of is whether it really is a driver issue. A huge variety of reasons branch to falsely diagnosed hardware problems. On the other hand, driver problems also cause a great number of problems. It all boils down to determining the source of the problem. But for now, we stick to troubleshooting driver problems and hopefully resolving some*.

For Newly Installed Devices

As per the HCL (hardware compatibility list) of your operating system, a device driver for any hardware you install is by default included in the OS package, meaning it will automatically detect and install the driver soon as you log in.

"No Drivers Found" Error

Usually you will get this message after the auto scan done when you log in, the very same scan used to install drivers for HCL-compliant hardware.

The reason you will get this is either your current operating system does not have the drivers available locally.

Solution 1 - Windows Update

If you are using Windows, you can check for updates online to download and install the necessary drivers, and/or service packs (for Windows XP).

Solution 2 - Driver Update

You can go to the manufacturer's website yourself and browse for your hardware to download an updated driver to use with your system.

Read here for other ways to look for device drivers.

Aftermath

Having searched drivers through all that means, you should have found a working driver...which we'll discuss a bit later.

If none of above has worked for you, you could join the forum discussions of people who share the same sentiment as you and find a solution using "BETA" drivers.

Beta drivers are unsigned device drivers that some manufacturers create for their users who appeal for it. But chances are low that they'll make one for you instantly. So you need patience in your part.

Another way is to try a different Operating System, or a different Version of your Operating System. For example, the Intel 915 GFX works perfectly with Windows XP, but not with Windows 7.

If finding a driver is inevitable, there is a last shot you can do to find a solution. Assuming you have advanced knowledge about drivers (most of which you'll learn joining several forums) you can fiddle with what materials you already have. For example, trying to make a Windows XP driver work for Windows 7.

This advanced knowledge can't really be taught. You have to learn it yourself with a lot of support from online communities and tinkering.

Note: No one will advise you messing with your computer right up, since these might inflict permanent damage: or cause you more trouble. Lots of people like me have solved problems messing with drivers, but along the way it caused us more trouble (we just luckily know how to fix), otherwise it could have been worse.