Fix My Computer Drivers Before I Break This Computer!

You're right. They ARE completely out of control. And that's the problem. A computer driver (or device driver as they are sometimes called) is a computer program that allows you computer software to control your computer hardware.

Each piece of hardware that you own must be handled and given directions in its own special way (sound's like my kids!). Your Windows operating system can not handle each of the million plus pieces of hardware out there on the market. So Windows determines that each type of device will act in a certain way. Then the hardware manufacturers create this nice little driver to make their device respond to Windows in the way that Windows expects. (Boy, I think I need something like this for MY kids!)

Although Windows comes with thousands of computer drivers, manufacturers are making changes every day. As new software, hardware, and Windows updates are released, conflicts begin to occur. The manufacturers, after hearing back from unhappy customers, update their device drivers to solve the problems. But we experience problems on our end because these nice little computer drivers don't magically update on our computer... or can they?

Windows Update tries to update our drivers from time to time. But they are not always current and sometimes create more problems than they solve. Since the hardware is so complex, it is important to have manufacturer provided or approved device drivers. It is possible to update computer drivers manually, but it takes a good amount of time and energy. Oh, if only our drivers could be kept current by some benevolent being...

Although a computer driver fairy may conjure up nice childhood memories, I've never had one visit my computer and grant me 3 wishes. But I've come pretty close!

I finally found a computer program that automatically scans my computer to make sure my drivers are up-to-date so they function properly. In a very short time, I can see what needs to be fixed. Then, with another click of the mouse, I can automatically fix my computer drivers with the current manufacturer drivers. This handy program also allows me to back-up my drivers to a secure location and then restore them again if needed. I wish I had that feature the last time I had to reinstall Windows! Live & Learn...