A software driver is a piece of code that allows the operating system to interact with hardware devices. The operating system utilizes this code to communicate with hardware devices, and perform functions appropriate for the device.
Many different kinds of hardware are compatible with computers, but each one requires a specific driver to work correctly. This hardware can include external components, such as keyboards and mice in addition to internal components such as a CPU and data ports.
The majority of software drivers originate directly from the company that developed and built the hardware involved. They typically provide software programs that scan the web for any updates to their device drivers. The program will either notify the user that an software drivers update is available or allow them to manually download and then install the latest version compatible with their device.
It is crucial to remember that the easiest and best way to determine if a driver for a device is to look up the manufacturer’s site. These companies are generally aware of how their hardware functions and will usually provide plenty of assistance and suggestions on the use of their products. They also often include a small utility program on top of their hardware that can be used to instantly check for any updates or compatibility problems and automatically download and install compatible new releases.